Tools Required

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Firebird and 2002 Chevrolet Camaro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

J 38606 Valve Spring Compressor
J 42863 Valve Seal Installer

Install the valves. The valves are available in standard size and 0.381 mm (0.015 in) oversize. Use oversize valve seals if oversized valves are used.
Use the following procedure to measure the valve stem height:
1. 2.1. Place the valve on the guide. Hold the valve in the closed position.
2. 2.2. Use a valve stem height gauge to measure the valve stem height.
3. 2.3. The measurement should be 49-50 mm (1.93-1.97 in).
NOTE: Use hand pressure only when installing the valve seal using J 42863. Using to much force may cause damage to the oil seal and possibly lead to excessive oil consumption.

Fig 1: Measuring Valve Stem Height
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Use the following procedure to measure the valve spring installed height:
1. 3.1. Place the valve in the valve guide.
2. 3.2. Install the valve spring cap and the valve cap keys.
3. 3.3. Seat the valve spring retainer by pulling up.
4. 3.4. Use a steel machinists' rule to measure the distance from the spring seat to the bottom of the valve spring cap.
5. 3.5. The measurement should be 42-44 mm (1.69-1.75 in).
  If the measurement is not within specifications add shims under the valve spring.
Important: Use hand pressure only when installing the valve seal using J 42863. Using to much force may cause damage to the oil seal and possibly lead to excessive oil consumption.
Place the valve stem oil seal over the valve stem so the seal begins to contact the valve guide.
Use J 42863 to push the valve stem oil seal over the valve guide.

Fig 2: Using J 42863
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Use J 38606 to install the valve spring and the valve cap.
Install the valve keys.

Fig 3: Using J 38606
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.