GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 38822 Cam Chain Tension Holder


    Object Number: 62342  Size: SH
  1. Remove the left side cam cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .
  2. Remove the right side cam cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .
  3. Important: The sprocket/chain relationship must be maintained throughout this procedure or the camshaft timing will be lost. This will require further engine disassembly to retime.

  4. Secure the camshaft sprockets to the timing chain by installing tie-wraps through the cam sprocket holes. Use four tie-wraps per sprocket.
  5. Working behind the sprockets, install cam chain holder J 38822 in order to position it between the chain tensioner and the guide. Apply the tension by tightening the tension adjusting screw.
  6. Important: Note the relative location of the cam drive pins in the end of the camshafts.


    Object Number: 210266  Size: SH
  7. Remove both cam sprocket bolts.
  8. Work the sprockets off of the cams using the play in the chain.
  9. Alternately loosen the cam bearing cap screws a few turns at a time until all valve spring pressure has been released.

  10. Object Number: 53008  Size: SH
  11. Remove the bolts and the bearing caps.
  12. Important: Whenever removing a camshaft from an engine with a suspected faulty camshaft operation, the camshaft lobes should be visually checked and measured. Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Clean and Inspect .


    Object Number: 53018  Size: SH
  13. Remove the camshaft.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 53018  Size: SH
  1. Apply the camshaft prelube, GM P/N 1052365, to the face of each cam lobe.
  2. Install the camshaft.

  3. Object Number: 53008  Size: SH

    Important: 

       • Each cap is identified for position and direction.
       • The arrow points toward the front of the engine.
       • E indicates a cap for the exhaust cam.
       • I indicates a cap for the intake cam.
       • Position 1 is from the front of the engine.

  4. Position the cam bearing caps to the cylinder head.

  5. Object Number: 207547  Size: SH
  6. Loosely install the cam bearing cap bolts.
  7. 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. Tighten the camshaft bearing cap bolts in sequence shown.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bearing cap bolts to 5 N·m+ 30 degrees (44 lb in + 30 degrees).


    Object Number: 53007  Size: SH
  10. Using the hex cast into the camshaft, rotate the cams until the drive pins are in position to engage the cam sprockets over the cams.

  11. Object Number: 210266  Size: SH
  12. Work the cam sprockets over the cams.
  13. Install the remaining bolts.
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the sprocket bolts to 120 N·m (89 lb ft).

  15. Remove chain holder J 38822 .
  16. Remove the tie-wraps from the cam sprockets.
  17. Install the left side cam cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .
  18. Install the right side cam cover. Refer to Camshaft Cover Replacement .