GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 22794 Spark Plug Port Adapter
    • J 38606 Valve Spring Compressor (Head-on)

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 74069  Size: SH
  1. Remove the valve rocker arms. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  2. Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug for the cylinder to be serviced.
  3. • Twist the plug wire 1/2 turn.
    • Pull only on the boot in order to remove the wire from the spark plug.

    Object Number: 14824  Size: SH

    Important: Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder head with the engine at room temperature.

  4. Loosen the spark plug 1 or 2 turns.
  5. Brush or use compressed air to remove any dirt or debris around the spark plug.
  6. Remove the spark plug.

  7. Object Number: 353918  Size: SH
  8. Install the J 22794 into the spark plug hole.
  9. Attach an air hose to J 22794 .
  10. Tap the end of the valve stem with a plastic face hammer in order to loosen any varnish on the valve stem keys.

  11. Object Number: 218211  Size: SH
  12. Use the J 38606 in order to compress the valve spring.

  13. Object Number: 1378970  Size: SH
  14. Remove the valve stem keys (5).
  15. Carefully release the valve spring tension.
  16. Remove the J 38606 .
  17. Remove the valve spring cap (4).
  18. Remove the valve spring (3).
  19. Remove the valve stem oil seal and shim (2).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1378970  Size: SH
  1. Clean the cylinder head valve spring seat area.
  2. Install the valve stem oil seal and shim (2), tapping it into position using an appropriate size socket and hammer. Install the oil seal and shim until it bottoms on the head.

  3. Object Number: 218211  Size: SH
  4. Install the valve spring to the J 38606 .
  5. Compress the valve spring using the J 38606 .
  6. Install the valve spring to the cylinder head.

  7. Object Number: 1378970  Size: SH
  8. Install the valve spring cap (4).
  9. Install the valve stem keys (5).
  10. • Use grease to hold the keys (5) in place and remove J 38606 .
    • Make sure the keys (5) seat properly in the groove of the valve stem.
    • Carefully release the valve spring pressure, making sure the valve keys stay in place.
    • Remove the J 38606 .
    • Tap the end to the valve stem with a plastic faced hammer to seat the keys, if necessary.

    Object Number: 353918  Size: SH
  11. Disconnect and remove the air supply from the J 22794 .
  12. Remove the J 22794 from the spark plug hole.
  13. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 14824  Size: SH
  14. Install the spark plug by hand until snug.
  15. Tighten the spark plug.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the spark plugs to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).


    Object Number: 74069  Size: SH
  17. Install the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
  18. Install the valve rocker arms. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .