GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Cylinder Head Replacement - Left Side Front

Tool Required

J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

Removal Procedure

Important: During disassembly, keep the valve train components together and identified in order to install the parts in the original locations.

  1. Remove lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .
  2. Remove the exhaust crossover. Refer to Exhaust Crossover Pipe Replacement in Engine Exhaust.
  3. Remove oil level indicator and tube. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .

  4. Object Number: 52299  Size: SH
  5. Remove the cylinder head bolts.
  6. Remove the cylinder head.
  7. Clean the mating surfaces of the following items:
  8. • The cylinder head
    • The cylinder block
    • The intake manifold
  9. Clean the cylinder block bolt threads.
  10. Clean the cylinder head bolts.
  11. If replacing cylinder head:
  12. • Remove exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Left Side in Engine Exhaust.
    • Remove engine lift bracket.
    • Remove spark plugs.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 52299  Size: SH
  1. Place the cylinder head gasket into position over the dowel pins. Ensure that the THIS SIDE UP note is showing.
  2. If removed, install the following components:
  3. • Spark plugs.
    • Engine lift bracket.
    • Exhaust manifold. Refer to Exhaust Manifold Replacement - Left Side in Engine Exhaust.
  4. Install the cylinder head.

  5. Object Number: 54295  Size: SH

    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.

  6. Install the cylinder head bolts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the cylinder head bolts to 60 N·m (44 lb ft) in the sequence shown. Use the J 36660-A in order to tighten the bolts an additional 95 degrees.

  8. Install the intake gasket.
  9. Install pushrods and rocker arms. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  10. Install the upper and the lower intake manifolds. Refer to the following procedures:
  11. •  Lower Intake Manifold Replacement
    •  Upper Intake Manifold Replacement
    • Install oil level indicator and tube. Refer to Oil Level Indicator and Tube Replacement .

    Object Number: 54282  Size: SH
  12. Install the crossover pipe. Refer to Exhaust Crossover Pipe Replacement .
  13. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling in Engine Cooling.