Engine - Cam Gear Damage/Force Balancer Replacement

88pontiac11

Bulletin Number: 88-6-57
Reference Number: 836116
Publish Date: 7/88
Subject: FORCE BALANCER REPLACEMENT (WHEN CAM GEAR TEETH ARE DAMAGED)

Models

Affected: 1987 GRAND AM WITH 2.5L ENGINE AND MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND 1988 GRAND AM, 6000 AND FIERO WITH 2.5L ENGINE
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 balancer's counter-rotating shafts, restricting proper lubrication to the bearings of the balancer assembly. This condition may result in premature malfunction of the force balancer and/or engine.

The three components that comprise the force balancer assembly are as follows:

Description Part Number

Cover Assembly, Oil Pump 10038405

Housing Assembly, Force Balancer 10042109 - For 1987 Grand Am Only

Housing Assembly, Force Balancer 10101422 - For 1988 Model Yr Only

GE-Rotor, Oil Pump 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

Labor Time : 6000 Grand Am Fiero

3.2 Hours 1.0 Hours 2.0 Hours

With A/C Add : .3 Hours .3 Hours .4 Hours