Cylinder Head Installation

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

Tool Required

J 36660-A Torque Angle Meter

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.

Clean the threads in the cylinder block.
Install a new cylinder head gasket on the cylinder block.
Important: The cylinder head gasket must be installed with the stamp markings facing upward (1).

Fig 1: Installing Cylinder Head Gasket
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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.

Fig 2: Applying Silicon Sealant
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
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 .
Install the cylinder head bolts and washers into the cylinder head.
Progressively torque the cylinder head bolts using two steps in the sequence shown.

Fig 3: Identifying Cylinder Head Bolts Tightening Sequence
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
1. 6.1. 1st Pass
  Tighten the cylinder head bolts to 35 N.m (26 Ib. ft).
2. 6.2. 2nd Pass
  Mark the front of the cylinder head bolt with paint then tighten the cylinder head bolts 180 degrees.
Check to ensure the paint mark is not at a 180 degrees angle to the front of the engine.