Balance Shaft: Removal

Remove engine. See ENGINE article at end of ENGINE section. Remove flywheel. Remove intake manifold as previously described. Remove lifter guide retainer. See Figure.
Remove front timing case cover as previously described. Remove balance shaft gear bolt. See Fig 1. Remove camshaft sprocket and timing chain.

Fig 1: 3.8L Balance Shaft & Components
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove bolts from balance shaft retainer. Remove balance shaft retainer and balance shaft gear. Install Slide Hammer (J-6125-B) in front of balance shaft and remove balance shaft. Remove balance shaft plug from rear of cylinder block.
Note direction of rear bearing installation. Using Rear Bearing Remover (J-36995-5), remove bearing from block. See Fig 2.

Fig 2: 3.8L Balance Shaft Rear Bearing Replacement

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Balance shaft and bearings are serviced as complete assembly only. Proper installation tools must be used to prevent balance shaft damage.