Balance Shaft (4.3L - If Equipped): Removal

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 55 other vehicles, including the 1999 Oldsmobile Bravada, 1999 GMC Yukon, 1999 GMC Suburban, 1999 GMC Sonoma, and 1999 GMC Sierra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Release fuel system pressure. See FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE . Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system. Discharge A/C system (if equipped) using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Remove radiator, A/C condenser (if equipped) and grille. Remove lower intake manifold. See INTAKE MANIFOLD (LOWER) . Remove valve lifters. See VALVE LIFTERS . Remove accessory drive belt, water pump and front cover. See FRONT COVER .
Remove CKP sensor reluctor ring using Puller (J-8433-1) and Puller Plate (J-41371). Remove the timing chain and the camshaft sprocket. Remove the crankshaft sprocket, using (J-5825-A). See TIMING CHAIN & SPROCKETS . Remove balance shaft gears. Remove balance shaft retainer plate. Using a soft-faced hammer, tap balance shaft out toward front of engine.

NOTE: Front bearing is removed with balance shaft. Replace front bearing and balance shaft as a set only. Replace balance shaft timing gears as a set only.