Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra and 2004 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the radiator. Refer to Radiator Replacement (EXC 8.1L) or Radiator Replacement (8.1L) in Engine Cooling.
Remove the air conditioning (A/C) condenser. Refer to Condenser Replacement in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
Remove the lifter pushrod guide. Refer to Valve Lifter Replacement .
Remove the timing chain and camshaft sprocket. Refer to Timing Chain, Sprockets, and/or Tensioner Replacement .
Remove the balance shaft drive gear.

Fig 1: View Of Balance Shaft Drive Gear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the balance shaft driven gear bolt.
1. Use a wrench in order to secure the balance shaft.
  Place the wrench onto the balance shaft near to the balance shaft front bearing.
2. Remove the balance shaft bolt.
3. Remove the wrench from the balance shaft.
Remove the balance shaft driven gear.

Fig 2: Locating Balance Shaft Driven Gear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the balance shaft retainer bolts and retainer.

Fig 3: View of Balance Shaft Retainer & Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The balance shaft and the balance shaft front bearing are serviced only as a package. Do not remove the balance shaft front bearing from the balance shaft.

Use a soft-faced hammer in order to remove the balance shaft from the engine block.

Fig 4: Removing Balance Shaft

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Clean and inspect the balance shaft, if necessary. Refer to Balance Shaft Cleaning and Inspection .