Installation Procedure

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the exhaust manifold heat shield, if required.
    NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
  2. Install the exhaust manifold heat shield bolts.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the bolts to 9 N.m (80 lb in).

    Fig 1: Installing Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield & Bolts - Right (4.3L)
    G02133479Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

    Important:  To assist in installing the exhaust manifold and gasket to the engine, tabs on a NEW exhaust manifold gasket will hold the gasket and bolts in place.

  3. Install NEW exhaust manifold gaskets to the exhaust manifold.
  4. Ensure that the exhaust manifold bolts, and plug wire shields are held in place by the tabs on the exhaust manifold gaskets.
    Fig 2: Installing Exhaust Manifold Gaskets - Right (4.3L)
    G02133480Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Install the exhaust manifold and plug wire shields.
  6. If reusing the old fasteners, apply threadlock GM P/N 12345493, (Canadian P/N 10953488), or equivalent to the threads of the exhaust manifold bolts.
  7. Tighten the exhaust manifold bolts.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the bolts to 30 N.m (22 lb ft).

    Fig 3: Installing Exhaust Manifold & Plug Wire Shields - Right (4.3L)
    G02133481Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Install the spark plugs.
  9. Position the spark plug wire retainer to the engine.
  10. Loosely install the spark plug wire retainer bolt.
  11. Connect the spark plug wires to the spark plugs.
  12. Install the oil level indicator tube. Refer to OIL LEVEL INDICATOR AND TUBE REPLACEMENT in Engine Mechanical - 4.3L.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the bolt to 12 N.m (106 lb in).

    Fig 4: Installing Spark Plugs - Right (4.3L)
    G02133482Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  13. Align the hinge clip with the lip on the throttle body.

    In order to install the air cleaner outlet duct, pivot the air cleaner outlet duct downward until the mounting stud is through the hole.

    Fig 5: Installing Air Cleaner Outlet Duct (4.3L)
    G02133483Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  14. Install the air cleaner adapter nut.
    Fig 6: Installing Air Cleaner Adapter Nut (4.3L)
    G02133484Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  15. Install the PCV hose.
    Fig 7: Installing PCV Hose (4.3L)
    G02133485Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  16. Tighten the air cleaner outlet duct clamp at the MAF/IAT sensor.
  17. Raise the vehicle.
    Fig 8: Tightening Air Cleaner Outlet Duct Clamp (4.3L)
    G02133486Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  18. Install the right exhaust manifold pipe nuts.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the nuts to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).

  19. Lower the vehicle.
    Fig 9: Installing Exhaust Manifold Pipe Nuts - Right (4.3L)
    G02133487Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.