Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the engine front cover. Refer to ENGINE FRONT COVER REPLACEMENT .
Align the timing marks on the sprockets so that they are as close as possible.

Fig 1: Aligning Timing Marks
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the timing chain dampener bolt.
Remove the timing chain dampener.

Fig 2: Removing Timing Chain Dampener
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the camshaft sprocket bolt.

Fig 3: Removing Camshaft Sprocket Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the camshaft sprocket and the timing chain.
Important: If the sprocket does not come off easily, a light blow on the lower edge of the sprocket with a plastic mallet should dislodge the sprocket.
Remove the crankshaft sprocket.

Fig 4: Removing Camshaft Sprocket And Timing Chain
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the balance shaft drive gear in order to access the camshaft thrust plate.

Fig 5: Removing Balance Shaft Drive Gear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the camshaft thrust plate bolts, if required.
Remove the camshaft thrust plate, if required.

Fig 6: Removing Camshaft Thrust Plate
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the balance shaft driven gear bolt, if required.
Remove the balance shaft driven gear, if required.
Clean and inspect all of the timing components for wear and damage. Refer to TIMING CHAIN AND SPROCKETS CLEANING AND INSPECTION (L36) or TIMING CHAIN AND SPROCKETS CLEANING AND INSPECTION (L67) .
If the pistons have been moved in the engine, use the following procedure:
1. 14.1. Turn the crankshaft so that the number one piston is at top dead center.
2. 14.2. Turn the camshaft so that, with the sprocket temporarily installed, the timing mark is straight down.
Fig 7: Removing Balance Shaft Driven Gear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.