GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 37096 Flywheel Holding Tool
    • J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter
  1. Disconnect the battery ground (negative) cable. Refer to

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

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  2. Remove the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  3. Remove the crankshaft balancer. Refer to Crankshaft Balancer Replacement .
  4. Remove the electrical connections from the front cover.

  5. Object Number: 97731  Size: SH
  6. Remove the crankshaft position sensor shield.

  7. Object Number: 97733  Size: SH
  8. Remove the crankshaft position sensor.
  9. Remove the oil pan to the front cover bolts.
  10. Remove the oil filter.
  11. Remove the lower radiator hose. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.
  12. Remove the water pump pulley. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.

  13. Object Number: 97759  Size: SH
  14. Remove the front cover attaching bolts and front cover with the oil filter adapter as one assembly.

  15. Object Number: 97758  Size: SH
  16. Remove the front cover gasket.
  17. If the front cover is being replaced, use the following procedure:
  18. 13.1. Remove the oil filter adapter and pressure relief valve from the front cover. Refer to Oil Filter Adapter and Bypass Valve Assembly Replacement .
    13.2. Remove the oil pump from the front cover.
    13.3. Remove the water pump from the front cover. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.
  19. Inspect the timing chain for overall in and out movement. Maximum movement is 25.4 mm (1 in).
  20. Inspect the sprockets for wear.
  21. Clean the mating surfaces of the front cover and cylinder block.
  22. Clean the sealing surfaces with degreaser.
  23. Important: The oil pan can be dropped slightly for front cover clearance if all pan bolts are loosened and the oil level sensor is removed.

  24. If the front cover has been replaced, use the following procedure:
  25. 18.1. Install the oil filter adapter and pressure relief valve. Refer to Oil Filter Adapter and Bypass Valve Assembly Replacement .
    18.2. Install the oil pump to the front cover.
    18.3. Install the water pump and new gasket. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter


    Object Number: 97758  Size: SH
  1. Install the new gasket. Ensure that the sealing surfaces are not damaged.
  2. Apply sealer GM P/N 1052080 or equivalent to the bolt threads.
  3. Install the new front cover seal.
  4. Important: Align the cogs on the crankshaft sprocket with the cogs on the oil pump in the front cover.


    Object Number: 97759  Size: SH
  5. Install the front cover on the engine.
  6. Install the upper front cover bolts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft). Use the J 36660-A in order to rotate the bolts an additional 40°.

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  8. Inspect the pan gasket. Replace it if necessary.
  9. Install the oil pan to the front cover bolts, and the oil pan bolts if loosened.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 14 N·m (125 lb in).

  11. Install the water pump pulley. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.
  12. Connect the lower radiator hose. Refer to Cooling and Radiator.
  13. Install the oil filter.

  14. Object Number: 97733  Size: SH
  15. Install the crankshaft position sensor.

  16. Object Number: 97731  Size: SH
  17. Install the crankshaft position sensor shield.
  18. Install the electrical connections to the front cover.
  19. Install the crankshaft balancer. Refer to Crankshaft Balancer Replacement .
  20. Install the drive belt tensioner. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement .
  21. Connect the battery ground (negative) cable. Refer to Battery.
  22. Fill the engine coolant. Refer to Draining and Filling in Engine Cooling.
  23. Fill the crankcase with clean engine oil. Refer to General Information.
  24. Inspect for proper fluid levels.
  25. Inspect for leaks.