Engine - Replace Force Balancer After Cam Gear Damage
88buick13Bulletin: 88-6-23
Date: Aug., '88
Ref. No.: 88-200-6
Corp. Ref. No. 836116
SUBJECT: FORCE BALANCER REPLACEMENT (WHEN CAM GEAR TEETH ARE DAMAGED)
MODELS AFFECTED: 1987 SOMERSETS/SKYLARKS WITH 2.5L ENGINES (VIN CODE U) AND MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS 1988 SKYLARKS WITH 2.5L ENGINES (VIN CODE U) 1988 CENTURYS WITH 2.5L ENGINES (VIN CODE R)
When replacing camshaft timing gears, be aware that if one or more of the cam gear teeth have been damaged or broken off, the force balancer assembly must be replaced. It is NOT NECESSARY to replace the force balancer assembly in cases where the cam gear teeth are simply worn.
Cam gear tooth material can accumulate in the oil passages of the force balancers counter-rotating shafts, restricting proper lubrication to the bearings of the balancer assembly. This condition may result in premature malfunction ot the force balancer and/or engine.
The three components that comprise the force balancer assembly are as follows:
Cover Assembly, Oil Pump P/N 10038405
Housing Assembly, Force Balancer P/N 10042109
For 1987 "N" Car Only
Housing Assembly, Force Balancer P/N 10101422
For 1988 Model Year Only
GE-Rotor, Oil Pump P/N 10038402
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
It is recommended that all three components be replaced when a cam gear has failed due to broken or sheared teeth.
Refer to Section 6A of the Service Manual for force balancer assembly and removal/installation details.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Labor Operation: T1356 1987 Somersets/Skylarks
Labor Time: 1988 Century 1988 Skylarks
3.2 Hours 1.0 Hours
With A/C Add: .3 .3 Hours
Trouble Code: 92 92