GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 3049-A Valve Lifter Remover

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .
  2. Remove the valve rocker arms and the valve pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .

  3. Object Number: 328592  Size: SH

    Important: Place the components in a rack so that the components can be reinstalled to their original location.

  4. Remove the bolts and valve lifter pushrod guide.

  5. Object Number: 328593  Size: SH

    Important: Place the valve lifters in the rack in the upright position in order to maintain the oil inside the valve lifters.

  6. Remove the valve lifters.

  7. Object Number: 31350  Size: SH

    Important: Some valve lifters may be stuck in the valve lifter bores because of gum or varnish deposits and may require the use of J 3049-A for removal.

  8. Use theJ 3049-A in order to remove the stuck valve lifters.
  9. Use a cleaning solvent and a shop towel to clean any varnish from the valve lifter bores.
  10. Inspect the valve lifter bores for excessive wear or scoring. Replace the engine block if there is excessive wear or deep scoring.
  11. Inspect the camshaft for wear or damage. If the wear is questionable remove the camshaft and inspect. Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical Unit Repair - 4.3L.

  12. Object Number: 188118  Size: SH

    Important: Components that are to be reused must be marked, sorted, and organized for assembly.

  13. Mark, sort, and organize the components for assembly.
  14. Clean the components in cleaning solvent.
  15. Dry the components with compressed air.

  16. Object Number: 334500  Size: SH
  17. Inspect the valve lifter pushrod guides for excessive wear.
  18. Inspect the valve lifter pushrod guides for cracks or damage.

  19. Object Number: 178485  Size: SH
  20. Inspect the valve lifter for the following:
  21. • Broken or damaged clip (1)
    • Worn pushrod socket (2)
    • Scuffed or worn lifter body (3)
    • If the valve lifter shows scuffing or wear, inspect the engine block valve lifter bores for wear.
    • Worn roller (4)
    • Loose or damaged pin (5)
    • Plugged oil hole (6)

Installation Procedure

Important: It is normal for NEW lifters to make a slight ticking noise when the engine is first started. Increasing the engine RPMs slightly to raise oil pressure should stop the noise.


    Object Number: 328593  Size: SH
  1. Apply lubricant GM P/N 12345501 or equivalent to the valve lifter rollers.
  2. Important: If reusing the valve lifters, install the valve lifters in the original positions.

  3. Install the valve lifters.

  4. Object Number: 328592  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.

  5. Install the valve lifter pushrod guides.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the valve lifter pushrod guide bolts to 16 N·m (12 lb ft).

  7. Install the valve rocker arms and pushrods. Refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Replacement .
  8. Install the lower intake manifold. Refer to Lower Intake Manifold Replacement .