GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 38188 Cylinder Head Broken Bolt Extractor Kit


    Object Number: 33648  Size: SH
  1. Remove the cylinder head to the block bolts. Follow the reverse of the tightening sequence.
  2. Remove the cylinder head.
  3. Remove the cylinder head gasket.

  4. Object Number: 33650  Size: SH

    Notice: Gasket and sealant material must be removed from the component's sealing surfaces before reassembly. Proper gasket and sealant removal is crucial and requires that the component sealing surfaces are not damaged during cleaning. Use only a plastic or wood gasket scraper such as J 28410. Appropriate chemical agents can be used to dissolve gasket and/or sealant materials when working on an individual unassembled component. The components exposed to the chemical agents must be rinsed with cleaning solvent in order to neutralize the chemical agent. Do not use abrasive paper, pads, or wire brush/wheel in order to clean sealing surfaces. Abrasive paper, pads, or wire brush/wheel will damage the sealing surfaces and produce fine grit residue that will contaminate the engine and engine oil. Failure to use proper cleaning methods may lead to engine damage.

    Important: Do not use any other method or technique to clean these gasket surfaces.

  5. Clean all of the gasket surfaces.
  6. Use the following procedures when cleaning the cylinder head and cylinder block surfaces:
  7. •  Use a razor blade gasket scraper to clean the cylinder head and cylinder block gasket surfaces. Do not scratch or gouge any surface.
    • Use a new razor blade for each cylinder head and cylinder block.
    • Hold the razor blade as parallel to the gasket surface as possible.

    Important: Do not use a tap to clean the cylinder head bolt holes.

  8. Clean the old sealer/lube and dirt from the bolt, the studs, and the bolt holes.
  9. Clean the bolt holes using a nylon bristle brush.
  10. Caution: Wear safety glasses to avoid injury when using compressed air or any cleaning solvent. Bodily injury may occur if fumes are inhaled or if skin is exposed to chemicals.

  11. When cleaning the cylinder head bolt holes 1-8 use a suitable commercial spray liquid solvent and compressed air from an extended-tip blow gun to reach the bottom of the holes.
  12. Remove any broken long cylinder head bolts using the J 38188 .