Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Installation

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

IMPORTANT: Keep the parts in order. Parts must be put back from where they were removed.

Apply sealer GM P/N 12346004, (Canadian P/N 10953480), or equivalent to the valve rocker arm stud-to-cylinder head threads.
Apply the sealer to a minimum of 6 threads.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Install the push rod guides and valve rocker arm studs onto the cylinder head.
Tighten: Tighten the valve rocker arm studs to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).

Fig 1: View Of Valve Rocker Arm Studs & Pushrod Guides

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The 8.1L engine uses different length intake and exhaust valve push rods.
The exhaust valve push rods (2) are longer than the intake valve push rods (1).

Install the valve push rods.

Fig 2: View Of Intake & Exhaust Valve Pushrods

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Coat the valve rocker arm and valve rocker arm ball bearing surfaces with grease or clean engine oil.
Install the valve rocker arms, the valve rocker arm balls and the valve rocker arm nuts.
Tighten: Tighten the valve rocker arm nuts slowly, to 35 N.m (26 lb ft), while guiding the tips of the rocker arms over the tips of the valves.

Fig 3: View Of Valve Rocker Arms

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.