Tool Required

J 36660-A  Torque Angle Meter. See Special Tools and Equipment .

NOTE: This engine uses special torque to yield head bolts. This design bolt requires a special tightening procedure. Failure to follow the given procedure will cause head gasket failure and possible engine damage.
1. Clean the threads in the cylinder block.
Fig 1: Cylinder Head Gasket
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
IMPORTANT: The cylinder head gasket must be installed with the stamp markings facing upward (1).
2. Install a new cylinder head gasket on the cylinder block.
Fig 2: Silicon Sealant To Cylinder Head Gasket Points
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
3. Apply a continuous bead of silicon sealant GM P/N 12346240 (Canadian P/N 10953493) or an equivalent, to the cylinder head gasket at points a, b and c.
4. Carefully install the cylinder head on the cylinder block.
NOTE: This bolt is designed to permanently stretch when tightened. The correct part number fastener must be used to replace this type of fastener. Do not use a bolt that is stronger in this application. If the correct bolt is not used, the parts will not be tightened correctly. The system or the components may be damaged.
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
5. Install the cylinder head bolts and washers into the cylinder head.
Fig 3: Cylinder Head Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Progressively torque the cylinder head bolts using two steps in the sequence shown.
   1. -

      1st Pass:  Tighten the cylinder head bolts to 35 N.m (26 lb ft).

   2. -

      2nd Pass:  Mark the front of the cylinder head bolt with paint then tighten the cylinder head bolts 180 degrees.

7. Check to ensure the paint mark is not at a 180 degrees angle to the front of the engine.