Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the right secondary camshaft drive chain tensioner. Refer to Secondary Camshaft Drive Chain Tensioner Replacement - Right .
Remove the camshaft position sensor. Refer to CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR in Engine Controls-3.5L.
Remove the intake camshaft sprocket bolt.

Fig 1: Removing Intake Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the 2 chain guide access plugs (1, 2) located in the cylinder head. Note the O-ring seals on the access plugs.
Loosen the primary camshaft drive chain guide upper bolts ONLY 2 full turns.

Fig 2: Removing Chain Guide Access Plugs
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the J 42042 on to the right cylinder head.
Slide the intake camshaft sprocket off of the camshaft and onto the pin of the J 42042.
Secure the intake camshaft sprocket in place using a wire tie.

Fig 3: Installing J 42042
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: DO NOT rotate the camshafts more than 10 degrees.
Remove the J 42038.
Allow the camshaft lobes to find a neutral position by rotating each camshaft, if necessary.

Fig 4: Removing J 42038
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Alternately loosen the camshaft bearing cap bolts a few turns at a time until all valve spring pressure has been released.
Remove the camshaft bearing caps.
Lift the right intake camshaft out of the cylinder head.
Remove the right secondary camshaft drive chain from the right intake camshaft sprocket.

Fig 5: Removing Camshaft Bearing Caps
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.