Balance Shaft Installation

1999 GMC Forward Control 5.7 R, AutomaticSECTION Balance Shaft Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tools Required: 

  • J 8001  Dial Indicator Set
  • J 21465-13  Drive Handle Extension
  • J 36660-A  Torque Angle Meter
  • J 36996  Balance Shaft Installer

  1. Use J 21465-13 and J 36996 to install the balance shaft into the engine block.
    Fig 1: Install The Balance Shaft Into The Engine Block
    G01764609Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  2. Install the balance shaft retainer.
  3. Install the balance shaft retainer bolts.

    Tighten: 

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

    Fig 2: Balance Shaft Retainer Bolts
    G01764610Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Install the balance shaft driven gear.
  5. Install the balance shaft driven gear bolt.

    Tighten: 

    Tighten the balance shaft driven gear bolt to 22 N.m (16 lb ft). Use J 36660-A to tighten the bolt an additional 70 degrees 

    Fig 3: Balance Shaft Driven Gear Bolt
    G01764611Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Using J 8001 measure the balance shaft end play. End play must not exceed 0.028 mm (0.008 in).
    Fig 4: Measure The Balance Shaft End Play
    G01764612Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Using J 8001 measure the balance shaft radial play at the rear. Radial play must be between 0.0127-0.119 mm (0.0005-0.0047 in).
    Fig 5: Measure The Balance Shaft Radial Play
    G01764613Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Install the balance shaft drive gear.
  9. Install the camshaft sprocket.
  10. Turn the camshaft so the timing mark on the camshaft sprocket is straight down.
  11. Remove the camshaft sprocket and balance shaft drive gear.
  12. Turn the balance shaft so the timing mark on the balance shaft driven gear points straight down.
  13. Partially install the balance shaft drive gear so the gear teeth are not engaged.
  14. Align the marks on the balance shaft driven gear and the balance shaft drive gear. Do this by turning the balance shaft.
  15. Once marks are aligned, fully seat balance shaft drive gear and engage gear teeth.
  16. Turn the crankshaft so the number one piston is at top dead center.
  17. Install the timing chain and camshaft sprocket.
  18. Using J 8001 measure the gear lash at four places. Measure every quarter turn. Gear lash must be between 0.050-0.127 mm (0.002-0.005 in).
    Fig 6: Measure The Gear Lash
    G01764614Courtesy 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.