Cylinder Head Assembly: Service and Repair

Fig. 8 Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Sequence:

1. Relieve fuel system pressure as outlined under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE RELIEF.
2. Rotate crankshaft to 0° TDC of the compression stroke.
3. Disconnect battery ground cable, then drain cooling system.
4. Remove air cleaner outlet tube.
5. Remove intake manifold as described in INTAKE MANIFOLD.
6. Remove accessory drive belt. If right side head is being removed, remove accessory belt idler. If left side head is being removed, remove alternator adjusting arm.
7. On models w/power steering, remove pump bracket attaching bolts, then the pump and bracket as an assembly with hoses attached. Position pump and bracket assembly aside in an upright position to prevent leakage of fluid.
8. On all models, if left side cylinder head is being removed, remove coil bracket and dipstick tube. If right side cylinder head is being removed, remove ground strap and throttle cable support bracket.
9. Remove exhaust manifolds, then the PCV valve and rocker arm covers.
10. Loosen rocker arm fulcrum bolts enough to allow the rocker arms to be swung aside and the pushrods removed. Keep pushrods in order so they can be installed in original position.
11. Remove cylinder head attaching bolts, then the cylinder head(s) and gasket(s). Discard gaskets(s).
12. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Lightly oil bolt threads prior to installation.
b. Replace any damaged gasket alignment dowels.
c. Tighten bolts in sequence shown in Fig. 8.
d. On 1989 models, torque bolts in two steps, first to 33-41 ft. lbs., then to 63-73 ft. lbs.
e. On 1990-94 models, torque bolts in two steps, first to 37 ft. lbs., then to 68 ft. lbs.
f. Prior to installation, dip each pushrod end in oil conditioner D9AZ-19579-C or other suitable heavy engine oil.
g. Lubricate rocker arm assemblies with oil conditioner D9AZ-19579-C or other suitable heavy engine oil.