GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 41088 Balance Shaft Holder
    • J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

    Object Number: 61196  Size: SH

    Important: If the balance shafts are not properly timed to the engine, the engine may vibrate or make noise.

  1. Install and time the balance shaft assembly to the engine using the following steps:
  2. 1.1. Place the number one piston at TDC.
    1.2. Rotate the crankshaft clockwise 90 degrees in either direction from TDC (viewing the crankshaft from the front of the engine)
    1.3. Install the J 41088 on to the balance shaft assembly to ensure the shafts do not rotate while the driven sprocket bolt is tightened.

    Object Number: 33660  Size: SH

    Notice: A new balance shaft driven sprocket bolt must be used any time the bolt is removed. If a new bolt is not used, the balance shaft sprocket may slip allowing the balance shafts to become mistimed and cause engine vibration.

    Important: The surface that was marked during disassembly of the driven sprocket must show if the drive sprocket is going to be reused. This will insure that the chain continues to ride on the same surface. If a new driven sprocket will be installed, either surface can be placed against the shaft.

  3. Install the driven sprocket to the shaft.
  4. Important: The balance shaft driven sprocket bolt is left hand threaded and must be tightened by rotating the bolt in a counter clockwise direction.

  5. Install the driven sprocket bolt. Finger tighten the bolt.

  6. Object Number: 33654  Size: SH
  7. Install the balance shaft chain guide.
  8. Press the chain guide tightly against the chain.
  9. 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.

  10. Tighten the chain tensioner bolt.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the chain tensioner bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  12. Tighten the balance shaft driven sprocket bolt.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the driven sprocket bolt to 40 N·m (30 lb ft). Use the J 36660-A in order to rotate the bolt an additional 45 degrees.

  14. Remove the J 41088 from the balance shaft housing assembly.
  15. Loosen the balance shaft chain guide bolt.
  16. Important: A brass feeler gauge needs to be used in order to ensure correct measurements are obtained. If a steel gauge is used, the steel gauge will not bend to conform to the guide and will cause incorrect measurements.

  17. Adjust the balance shaft drive chain tension. Insert a 1 mm (0.040 in) brass feeler gauge between the chain guide and the chain.
  18. Press the guide against the chain using about three pounds of force.
  19. Install the chain tensioner bolt.
  20. Tighten
    Tighten the chain tensioner bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in).

  21. Install the balance shaft chain cover.
  22. Install the balance shaft chain cover nut and bolt.
  23. Tighten
    Tighten the chain cover nut and bolt to 13 N·m (115 lb in).