Engine Mechanical - 3.4l v6 (VIN E) Pontiac Grand AM V

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION

Engine is identified by eighth character of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). VIN is visible through windshield on left side of instrument panel. VIN is also located on Safety Compliance Certification Label attached to left door lock pillar.

Engine may also be identified by engine identification (ID) number stamped on left side of cylinder block, on engine-to-transaxle mating flange. Engine ID number, LA1, identifies 3.4L SFI engine.

VIN ENGINE CODE

VALVE CLEARANCE ADJUSTMENT

Engine has hydraulic valve lifters. Valve adjustment is not required.

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Note. To trouble shoot engine mechanical components, see appropriate table in TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

Note. For reassembly reference, label all electrical connectors, vacuum hoses and fuel lines before removal. Also, place mating marks on engine, hood, and other major assemblies before removal.

FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE

Disconnect negative battery cable. Loosen fuel filler cap. Install Fuel Pressure Gauge (J-34730-1A) to fuel pressure test head. Wrap shop towel around pressure connection when installing fuel pressure gauge to absorb fuel leakage. Place gauge bleed hose in container. Open bleed valve to relieve fuel pressure.

COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING

1. Open air bleed screw located on thermostat housing 2-3 turns. Slowly fill cooling system through radiator neck to base of radiator neck. Wait 2 minutes. Recheck fluid level. Add coolant to restore level to base of radiator neck.
2. Install radiator cap. Close air bleed screw. Fill coolant reservoir with 1 quart (.95L) of coolant.

Note. The Low Coolant warning/indicator lamp may come on after this procedure. If after operating the vehicle so that the engine heats up and cools down three times, the Low Coolant warning/indicator lamp does not go out, or fails to come on at the ignition check, and the coolant is above the full cold mark in the reservoir, refer to Low Coolant Warning/Indicator Lamp in Electrical Diagnosis. If at any time the Temperature warning/indicator lamp comes on, immediate action is required. Turn OFF the engine and allow the vehicle to cool. Do not remove the coolant recovery reservoir cap at this time.

Removal

1. Disconnect battery cables. Remove fuel injector sight shield. Remove hood. Remove vehicle cross brace. Remove engine mount struts. Remove drive belt.
2. Release fuel pressure. See «FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__fuel-pressure-release) . Remove air cleaner and air intake assembly. Drain cooling system. Discharge A/C system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment.
3. Remove radiator and heater hoses from engine. Remove AC compressor with lines attached. Remove throttle body bracket and cables. Remove cruise control cable. Remove fuel lines. Disconnect necessary electrical connectors and vacuum lines from engine. Disconnect brake booster hose.
4. Raise and support vehicle Remove lower radiator air baffle. Drain engine oil and remove oil filter. Disconnect wiring harness grounds. Remove starter. Disconnect exhaust/converter pipe from rear exhaust manifold Remove power steering pump.
5. Remove engine splash shields. Remove torque converter and torque converter to flywheel bolts. See appropriate REMOVAL & INSTALLATION - A/T article in TRANSMISSION SERVICING. Remove transaxle-to-engine brace.
6. Support transaxle with stand or jack. Remove front transmission mount and bracket. Remove lower transaxle-to-engine bolt and stud. Lower vehicle.
7. Install engine lifting device. Remove engine mount and adaptor. Remove upper transaxle-to-engine bolts. Remove engine from vehicle

Installation

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove fuel injector sight shield. Drain cooling system. Remove air cleaner ducts.
2. Remove accelerator, and cruise control cables with bracket from throttle body. Remove front spark plug wires. Disconnect harness connectors, vacuum hoses, and coolant hoses from throttle body. Remove ignition coil bracket with coils, and canister purge solenoid.
3. Remove manifold air pressure (MAP) sensor. Disconnect and remove emission control vacuum harness. (Scheme 1) Remove EGR valve and generator front and side brackets. Remove upper intake manifold retaining bolts. Remove upper intake manifold. (Scheme 2)

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Fill cooling system.

Scheme 1

Scheme 2

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove upper intake manifold. See «UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) . Remove valve covers. See «VALVE COVERS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) . Disconnect harness connectors from intake manifold components. Release fuel pressure. See «FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__fuel-pressure-release) . Disconnect fuel lines from rail. Remove fuel rail.
2. Unbolt power steering pump from front cover, and position aside. Disconnect upper radiator hose, heater hoses and thermostat by-pass hose, from lower intake manifold. Remove lower intake manifold retaining bolts. Remove lower intake manifold. Loosen rocker arms, and remove push rods to remove lower intake manifold gaskets.

Note. When replacing lower intake manifold gasket, a revised intake manifold gasket has been introduced by manufacturer. This new design gasket helps resolve issues related to intake manifold oil/coolant leaks. The gasket requires a revised torque specification and procedure in addition to the use of NEW revised intake manifold bolts. Please review TSB ENGINE OIL OR COOLANT LEAK (INSTALL NEW INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKET) for complete information.

1. Clean all gasket mating surfaces. Install lower intake manifold gaskets. With the gaskets in place, apply a 0.31-0.39" (8-10 mm) drop of GM® RTV sealer (12346286 US; 10953472 Canada) or equivalent to the 4 corners of the intake manifold-to-block joint. Connect the drops at both ends on the ridge where the front and rear of lower intake manifold contacts the block with a bead of RTV sealer that is 0.31-0.39" (8-10 mm) wide and 0.12-0.20" (3.0-5.0 mm) thick.
2. Install push rods into original position, and tighten rocker arms to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications). Install lower intake manifold using NEW bolts that have a threadlocker adhesive added. If reusing original bolts, clean bolt threads and apply sealant (12345382) to bolt threads.
3. Tighten lower intake manifold bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications). (Scheme 3) To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

Note. An oil leak may result if vertical bolt are not tightened before diagonal bolts.

Scheme 3

Removal (Left)

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove air cleaner duct. Drain cooling system. Remove left (front) engine mount strut bracket. Disconnect upper radiator hose from engine. Remove A/T vacuum modulator pipe (if equipped).
2. Remove thermostat by-pass pipe. Remove crossover pipe heat shield. Remove crossover pipe bolts at left exhaust manifold. Remove left (front) exhaust manifold heat shield. Remove exhaust manifold retaining nuts. Remove exhaust manifold and gasket.

Removal (Right)

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove air cleaner duct. Drain cooling system. Remove upper radiator hose at engine. Remove A/T vacuum modulator pipe (if equipped). Remove thermostat by-pass pipe.
2. Remove crossover pipe heat shield. Remove crossover pipe bolts from right (rear) manifold. Disconnect oxygen sensor harness connector. Raise and support vehicle. Remove exhaust/catalytic converter pipe from manifold.
3. Remove EGR manifold tube. Remove upper and lower exhaust manifold heat shields. Remove manifold retaining nuts. Remove exhaust manifold and gasket.

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system. Remove fuel injector sight shield. Remove front spark plug wires. Remove A/T vacuum modulator pipe (if equipped). Remove right engine strut at engine. Remove thermostat by-pass pipe. Remove PCV valve. Remove valve cover retaining bolts. Remove valve cover and gasket.

Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove fuel injector sight shield. Remove accessory drive belt. Remove generator braces. Remove generator and bracket. Remove rear spark plug wires. Remove ignition coil bracket with coils and canister purge solenoid attached. Remove vacuum hose from air duct at right valve cover. Remove valve cover retaining bolts. Remove valve cover and gasket.

Apply RTV Sealant (12345739) where cylinder head and intake manifold meet. (Scheme 4) Install valve cover and gasket. Tighten bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

Scheme 4

CYLINDER HEAD

Note. Place valve train parts in a rack to ensure installation in same location from which they were removed. Intake push rod are 5.68" (144.18 mm) long, and exhaust push rods are 6.0" (152.51 mm) long. If only removing rocker arms and push rods, DO NOT remove lower intake manifold.

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Raise and support vehicle. Drain cooling system. Drain engine oil. Lower vehicle. Remove upper intake manifold. See «UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e). Remove lower intake manifold. See «LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e).
2. Mark position of rocker arms and push rods. Remove rocker arm bolts. Remove rocker arms and push rods. Remove exhaust crossover pipe. Remove right engine mount strut bracket. Remove oil level indicator tube. Remove spark plug wires.
3. Remove spark plugs. Remove exhaust manifold. See «EXHAUST MANIFOLDS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e). Remove cylinder head retaining bolts in reverse tightening order. Discard bolts. (Scheme 5) Remove cylinder head and gasket.

Scheme 5

Inspection

If warpage of cylinder head gasket surface exceeds .005" (.127 mm), machine surface. See CYLINDER HEAD table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. DO NOT remove more than .010" (.25 mm) of material from original surface.

1. Clean cylinder head bolt threads and cylinder block holes. Install new head gasket, make sure THIS SIDE UP marking faces up.
2. Install cylinder head. Install head bolts and tighten in sequence to specification. (Scheme 5) See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications). To install remaining components, reverse removal procedure.

Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove accessory drive belt. Raise and support vehicle. Remove right front wheel. Remove right inner fender splash shield. Remove crankshaft damper bolt and washer. Using Crankshaft Damper Puller (J-24420-B), remove damper. Using a seal puller, carefully pry out seal.

Coat seal with oil to make installation easier. Using Front Cover Aligner & Oil Seal Installer (J-35468), install crankshaft front seal. Clean damper key and keyway. Install damper using Crankshaft Damper Installer (J-29113). Install damper bolt and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system. Drain engine oil and remove oil pan. Remove coolant expansion tank. Remove front crankshaft damper. Remove accessory drive belt tensioner. Unbolt power steering pump, and position aside with hoses attached.
2. Remove thermostat by-pass pipe. Disconnect lower radiator hose from water pump. Remove water pump pulley. Remove upper and lower crankshaft position sensor wiring harness brackets from front cover. Remove front cover retaining bolts. Remove front cover and gasket. (Scheme 6)

To install, reverse removal procedures. Apply Sealant (105280) onto both sides of lower edges of front cover gasket where it contacts oil pan gasket.

Scheme 6

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system. Drain engine oil. Remove front cover. See «FRONT COVER»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e). Rotate crankshaft until timing marks on crankshaft sprocket and camshaft sprocket are aligned on timing chain damper. (Scheme 7)
2. Remove camshaft sprocket bolt. Remove camshaft sprocket and timing chain. Using Crankshaft Sprocket Puller (J5825-A), remove crankshaft sprocket. Remove timing chain damper bolts and remove damper.

1. Using Crankshaft Sprocket Installer (J-38612), install crankshaft sprocket. Install timing chain damper. Tighten damper bolts to 15 ft. lbs. (20 N.m).
2. Align crankshaft timing mark to timing mark on bottom of chain damper. Hold camshaft sprocket with chain hanging down and install chain onto crankshaft gear. Align timing mark on camshaft gear with timing mark on top of chain damper. (Scheme 7)
3. Install camshaft sprocket bolt. Lubricate chain with engine oil. Install timing chain front cover with NEW gasket. Tighten cover bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications). To install remaining components, reverse removal procedure.

Scheme 7

ROCKER ARM & VALVE LASH ADJUSTER

Note. Place valve train parts in a rack to ensure installation into same location from which they were removed. Intake push rods are 5.68" (144.18 mm) long, and exhaust push rods are 6.0" (152.51 mm) long. If only removing rocker arms and push rods, do not remove lower intake manifold.

Remove upper intake manifold. See UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD . Remove lower intake manifold. See LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD . Mark position of rocker arms and push rods. Remove rocker arms and push rods. Remove guide bolts and guide. Remove valve lifters.

If installing new lifter, coat bottom of lifter with Lifter Prelube (1052365). Install lifter into original bore. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Ensure push rods are installed correctly.

CAMSHAFT

Note. To remove camshaft, engine must be removed from vehicle.

Remove engine. See ENGINE. Remove upper intake manifold. See UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD. Remove lower intake manifold. See LOWER INTAKE MANIFOLD. Remove push rods and valve lifters, noting location for installation reference. See ROCKER ARM & VALVE LASH ADJUSTER. Remove front cover. See FRONT COVER. Remove timing chain and camshaft sprocket. See TIMING CHAIN. Remove oil pump drive clamp. Remove oil pump drive assembly. (Scheme 8) Remove camshaft thrust plate screws and thrust plate. Carefully rotate and pull camshaft out of bearing bore.

If journal runout, lobe lift or oil clearance is not within specification, replace camshaft. See CAMSHAFT table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. Front and rear camshaft bearings have a different outside diameter than inner bearings. See CYLINDER BLOCK table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. If necessary, remove camshaft bearings using Remover/Installer (J-33049).

1. Lubricate camshaft bearings, camshaft lobes and thrust plate with GM Lubricant (1052365). Lubricate camshaft journals with engine oil. Carefully rotate and install camshaft into bearing bore.
2. Install camshaft thrust plate. To install remaining components, reverse removal procedure. Ensure timing marks are aligned. (Scheme 7) Install valve lifters and push rods into original locations. If camshaft was replaced, add GM Engine Oil Supplement (1052367) to engine oil. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications).

Scheme 8

Remove transaxle and flywheel/flexplate. See appropriate TRANSMISSION REMOVAL & INSTALLATION article in TRANSMISSION SERVICING for A/T, or appropriate article in CLUTCHES for M/T. Using appropriate seal removing procedure, remove rear crankshaft oil seal.

1. Coat inner and outer seal surfaces with engine oil. Install seal onto mandrel of Seal Installer (J-34686) until dust lip bottoms against tool collar. Align seal installer dowel pin with crankshaft. Install seal installer onto crankshaft. (Scheme 9)
2. Turn seal installer handle until seal is installed. Remove seal installer. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications).

Scheme 9

RADIATOR (ALERO & GRAND AM - 1999)

Note. When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL™ coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL™ is added to the system, the engine coolant will require change sooner: at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months.

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Disconnect positive battery cable. Remove the retainer bolt and retainer. Remove the battery and battery insulator from vehicle.
2. Remove the battery tray screws and the battery tray.
3. Evacuate the A/C system using approved recover and recycling procedures. See «EVACUATING A/C SYSTEM»(ref-118-S28497345752000030700000) .
4. Drain the cooling system. Recover the coolant.
5. Remove the upper radiator hose.
6. Remove the upper transaxle cooler line.
7. Remove the coolant surge tank hose.
8. Remove the condenser inlet fitting from the discharge hose.
9. Disconnect the cooling fan electrical connection.
10. Raise the vehicle. See «JACKING & HOISTING»(ref-1913-S19240312892000031500000) in SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
11. Remove the lower closeout panel.
12. Remove the lower radiator hose from the radiator.
13. Remove the lower transaxle cooler line.
14. Remove the evaporator line from the condenser outlet.
15. Remove the lower radiator mounting panel.
16. Remove the radiator, fan and condenser as an assembly from the vehicle.
17. Remove the condenser from the radiator.
18. Remove the fan shroud from the radiator.

1. Install the fan shroud to the radiator.
2. Install the condenser to the radiator. Tighten the bolt to 44 INCH lbs. (5 N.m).
3. Install the radiator, fan, and condenser as an assembly to the vehicle.
4. Install the lower radiator mounting panel. Tighten the bolts to 89 INCH lbs. (10 N.m)
5. Install the condenser outlet to the evaporator line. Tighten the bolt to 18 ft. lbs. (25 N.m).
6. Install the lower radiator hose to the radiator.
7. Install the lower closeout panel.
8. Lower the vehicle. Install the cooling fan electrical connection.
9. Install the lower transaxle cooler line. Tighten the bolt to 22 ft. lbs. (30 N.m).
10. Install the condenser inlet fitting to the discharge hose. Tighten the bolt to 18 ft. lbs. (25 N.m).
11. Install the coolant surge tank hose.
12. Install the upper transaxle cooler line. Tighten the bolt to 22 ft. lbs. (30 N.m).
13. Install the upper radiator hose.
14. Refill the cooling system.
15. Recharge the A/C system. See «CHARGING A/C SYSTEM»(ref-118-S21177302952000030700000) in GENERAL SERVICING article in HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING.
16. Install the battery tray.
17. Install the battery.
18. Start engine. Bleed cooling system. See COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Note. After servicing the cooling system, and if the vehicle is equipped with an intermittent low coolant light, an occasional low coolant light may be encountered during some extreme driving maneuvers. This complaint should be eliminated by removing the surge tank cap and adding coolant to a level just at or above the full cold line when the system is cold.

RADIATOR (ALERO & GRAND AM - 2000-01)

Note. When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL™ coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL™ is added to the system, the engine coolant will require change sooner: at 50 000 km (30,000 miles) or 24 months.

1. Disconnect the battery ground (negative) cable and the battery (positive) cable from the battery. Remove the battery hold down retainer. Place the underhood junction block aside for access to the battery. Remove the battery.
2. Remove the battery tray screws. Remove the battery tray.
3. Evacuate and recover A/C refrigerant. See EVACUATING and «REFRIGERANT RECOVERY/RECYCLING»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/general-servicing-all-makes/#hvac-system-general-servicing-procedures__refrigerant-recoveryrecycling) in GENERAL SERVICING article in HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING.
4. Drain the cooling system. Recover the coolant.
5. Remove the upper radiator hose.
6. Remove the upper transaxle cooler line.
7. Remove the coolant surge tank hose.
8. Remove the condenser inlet fitting from the discharge hose.
9. Disconnect the cooling fan electrical connection.
10. Raise the vehicle. See «JACKING & HOISTING»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/wheel-alignment/#wheel-alignment-specifications-adjustment-procedures) in SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
11. Remove the lower closeout panel.
12. Remove the lower radiator hose from the radiator.
13. Remove the lower radiator hose from the radiator.
14. Remove the evaporator line from the condenser outlet.
15. Remove the lower radiator mounting panel.
16. Remove the radiator, fan and condenser as an assembly from the vehicle.
17. Remove the condenser from the radiator.
18. Remove the fan shroud from the radiator.

1. Install the fan shroud to the radiator.
2. Install the condenser to the radiator. Tighten the bolt to 44 INCH lbs. (5 N.m).
3. Install the radiator, fan, and condenser as an assembly to the vehicle.
4. Install the lower radiator mounting panel. Tighten the bolts to 89 INCH lbs. (10 N.m).
5. Install the condenser outlet to the evaporator line. Tighten the bolt to 18 ft. lbs. (25 N.m).
6. Install the lower radiator hose to the radiator.
7. Install the lower closeout panel.
8. Lower the vehicle. Install the cooling fan electrical connection.
9. Install the lower transaxle cooler line. Tighten the bolt to 22 ft. lbs. (30 N.m).
10. Install the condenser inlet fitting to the discharge hose. Tighten the bolt to 18 ft. lbs. (25 N.m).
11. Install the coolant surge tank hose.
12. Install the upper transaxle cooler line. Tighten the bolt to 22 ft. lbs. (30 N.m).
13. Install the upper radiator hose.
14. Refill the cooling system.
15. Recharge the A/C system. See «CHARGING A/C SYSTEM»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/general-servicing-all-makes/#hvac-system-general-servicing-procedures__charging-ac-system) in GENERAL SERVICING article in HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING.
16. Install the battery tray.
17. Install the battery.
18. Start engine and inspect the cooling system for leaks.

RADIATOR (IMPALA & MONTE CARLO - 1999-2001)

Note. When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL™ coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL™ is added to the system, the engine coolant will require change sooner: at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months.

1. Remove air cleaner and duct assembly.
2. Drain the cooling system.
3. To prevent shearing of rubber bushing(s) loosen bolt(s) on engine strut(s) before swinging strut(s). Remove the engine strut brace bolts from the upper tie bar and rotate the strut(s) and brace(s) rearward.
4. Remove the electric cooling fans by disconnecting the battery ground (negative) cable. Remove the front fender upper diagonal brace. Carefully disconnect the throttle body air inlet and adjust the air cleaner assembly for access. Disconnect the radiator inlet hose from the radiator. Disengage the cooling fan shroud retainers. Remove the cooling fan shroud bolts. Disconnect the transmission oil cooler lines from the retainers at the bottom of the cooling fan shroud. Disengage the cooling fan shroud clip from the top of the radiator. Reposition the cooling fan shroud for access. Disconnect the cooling fan shroud electrical connector. Remove the cooling fan shroud.
5. Remove the upper radiator brackets and bolts.
6. Use the Radiator Clamp Pliers (J 38185) in order to reposition the radiator inlet hose clamp and the radiator outlet hose clamp.
7. Disconnect the radiator outlet hose from the radiator.
8. Remove the low coolant module from radiator. In order to unlock the low coolant module, lift one leg of the snap clip from its locked position and pull outward with a slight twisting motion. Remove the low coolant module.
9. Disconnect the transaxle oil cooler lines from the radiator.
10. Remove the radiator.

1. Install the radiator to the lower mounts.
2. Connect the transaxle oil cooler lines to the radiator.
3. Install the low coolant module.
4. Connect the radiator outlet hose to the radiator. Use the radiator clamp pliers in order to reposition and install the hose clamp.
5. Connect the radiator inlet hose to the radiator. Use the radiator clamp pliers in order to reposition and install the hose clamp.
6. Install the radiator brackets and bolts. Tighten the radiator bracket bolts to 18 ft. lbs. (24 N.m).
7. Install the electric cooling fans.
8. Install the engine mount strut(s) to the proper position.
9. Install air cleaner and duct assembly.
10. Fill the cooling system.
11. Inspect for leaks.

Scheme 10

Scheme 11

1. Remove the air cleaner intake duct.
2. Partially drain the cooling system.
3. Use the Hose Clamp Pliers (J 38185) to reposition the hose clamp from the water outlet housing.
4. Remove the radiator inlet hose from the water outlet housing.
5. Remove the exhaust crossover pipe.
6. Remove the water outlet housing bolts.
7. Remove the water outlet housing and the gasket.
8. Remove the thermostat.
9. Clean the water outlet mating surfaces.

1. Install the thermostat.
2. Install the water outlet gasket and housing.
3. Install the water outlet housing bolts. Tighten the bolts to 25 N.m (18 ft lbs).
4. Install the exhaust crossover pipe.
5. Install the radiator inlet hose to the water outlet housing.
6. Use the Hose Clamp Pliers to reposition and install the hose clamp to the water outlet housing.
7. Install the air cleaner intake duct.
8. Fill the cooling system. Refer to «COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__cooling-system-bleeding) .

Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system. Loosen water pump pulley bolts. Remove accessory drive belt. Remove water pump pulley. Note locator tab near 12 o'clock position at top of water pump housing for installation reference. Remove water pump retaining bolts. Remove water pump and gasket.

Install water pump with NEW gasket, ensuring locator tab at top of water pump housing is positioned vertically. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

1. Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove motor mount struts. Remove A/C compressor retaining bolts, and position aside with hoses attached. Install Engine Support Fixture & Adapters (J-28467-6A, J-28467-90A, and J-36462-A).
2. Raise and support vehicle. Remove 3-way catalytic converter pipe from right (rear) exhaust manifold. Drain engine oil. Disconnect oil level sensor harness connector. Remove starter. Remove transaxle brace from oil pan. Remove lower engine and transaxle motor mount nuts.
3. Using support fixture, raise engine to gain access for oil pan removal. Remove engine mount and bracket from oil pan. Disconnect lower right ball joint and outer tie rod from steering knuckle. See appropriate FRONT article in SUSPENSION. Remove left (front) and right (rear) oil pan side bolts. Remove oil pan-to-block retaining bolts. Remove oil pan and gasket. (Scheme 13)

Apply a small amount of GM Sealer (1234579) onto either side of rear main bearing cap, where seal surface on cap meets cylinder block. (Scheme 14) Install gasket and oil pan. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Fill crankcase with oil.

Scheme 12

Scheme 13

OVERHAUL

Note. For repair procedures not covered in this article, see ENGINE OVERHAUL PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

1. Clean head gasket mating surface. Clean carbon from combustion chambers. DO NOT damage surfaces. Check cylinder head for cracks, burrs, nicks and warpage.
2. Check cylinder head warpage. Resurface cylinder head if warpage exceeds specification. See «CYLINDER HEAD»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. DO NOT machine more than .010" (.25 mm) from original cylinder head surface.

Valve Springs

1. Measure valve spring installed height from surface of cylinder head spring pad to underside of spring retainer. See «VALVES & VALVE SPRINGS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. If installed height is not within specification, a spacer can be installed between cylinder head and valve spring to obtain correct height.
2. Inspect valve spring free length and pressure. Replace valve spring if free length and pressure are not within specification.

Valve Stem Oil Seals

When installing new valve stem seals, ensure oil seal bottoms on valve guide. Oversize valve stem seals must be installed when oversize valves are used.

Valve Guides

1. Valve guides must be reamed for an oversize valve if valve stem-to-guide oil clearance exceeds specification. See «CYLINDER HEAD»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. Valves are available with oversize stems.
2. If oversize valves or oversize valve stem oil seals are not available, valve guide may be reamed to use a service bushing. Always use reamers in proper sequence (smallest first).

Note. Always grind valve seat after valve guide has been reamed or service bushing has been installed.

Valve Seat

Ensure valve seat angle, seat width and seat runout are within specification. See CYLINDER HEAD table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS. Valve seats must be ground when valve guide is reamed or replaced. Seat replacement information is not available from manufacturer.

Valves

1. Ensure head diameter, valve face runout, stem diameter and valve margin are within specification. See «VALVES & VALVE SPRINGS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.
2. Oversize valves are available. When servicing valve stem tip, DO NOT remove more than .010" (.25) from end of valve stem.

Valve Seat Correction Angles

Grind valve seat to a true 46-degree angle. If seat width is too wide after grinding, use a 20-degree stone to lower seat, or a 70-degree stone to raise seat. See CYLINDER HEAD table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Piston & Rod Assembly

Mark piston in relation to cylinder bore and rod for reassembly. Ensure arrow on top of piston faces front of engine upon reassembly. Replace rod if bend or twist exceeds specification. See CONNECTING RODS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Fitting Pistons

Measure piston diameter with pin removed. Measure diameter at 90-degree angle to pin-on-pin center line. If piston clearance is not within specification, machine cylinder bore and install oversize piston(s) as necessary. See PISTONS, PINS & RINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Piston Rings

Ensure ring end gap and side clearance are within specification. See PISTONS, PINS & RINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Installing Piston Rings

Install piston rings with identification mark toward top of piston and ring gaps properly spaced. (Scheme 15)

Scheme 14

Rod Bearings

Ensure rod side clearance is .0007-.0024" (.018-.061 mm). If connecting rod bearing oil clearance is not within correct specification, machine crankshaft and replace bearings. See CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Crankshaft & Main Bearings

Measure crankshaft main bearing for proper oil clearance, out-of-round and taper. If any measurements are not within specification, machine crankshaft and replace bearings. See CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Crankshaft Flange Runout

1. With engine removed and crankshaft installed, or with crankshaft mounted on "V" blocks, measure crankshaft flange runout. Mount dial indicator, and place dial indicator stem onto crankshaft flange. Adjust dial indicator to zero.
2. Mark reference point on crankshaft flange. Ensure crankshaft is thrust forward so end float will not affect readings. Turn crankshaft 360 degrees.
3. Observe and record readings. Reading should not vary more than .0016" (.041 mm). If readings exceed specification, replace crankshaft.

Thrust Bearing

1. With main bearing cap bolts installed and loosely tightened, pry crankshaft rearward to align bearing caps, then push forward to align rear face of thrust main bearing. Tighten main bearing cap bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications) .
2. Measure crankshaft end play. See «CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table under ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS.

Cylinder Block

Measure block for flatness with a straightedge and feeler gauge across cylinder bores. If deck surface warpage exceeds specification, machine surface. DO NOT remove more than .010" (.25 mm) of material from original deck surface. If more is removed, block must be replaced.

ENGINE LUBRICATION SYSTEM

Oil delivery system supplies oil to crankshaft journals first. see scheme 16 Oil from main bearings is then supplied to connecting rod bearings through intersecting passages in crankshaft. Passages in crankshaft main bearings supply oil to camshaft bearings through vertical drilled holes. Oil passages from camshaft journals supply oil to hydraulic lifters. Lifters pump oil through push rods to rocker arms. Oil drains back and is directed by cast dams in crankcase casting to supply camshaft lobes. Cam chain drive is lubricated by indirect oil splash.

Scheme 15

Crankcase Capacity

Engine oil capacity is 4.0 qts. (3.8L). More oil will be needed when changing oil filter.

Oil Pressure

Normal oil pressure is 50 - 65 psi (3.5- 4.5 kg/cm 2 ) at 1200 RPM (at normal operating temperature).

Removal & Disassembly

1. Remove oil pan. See «OIL PAN»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Remove oil pump mounting bolts. Remove oil pump and drive shaft extension.
2. To disassemble, remove pump cover. DO NOT remove pick-up tube from cover unless loose or broken. If pick-up tube is loose, bent or has been removed, replace pick-up tube and pump cover. WARNING: Pressure regulator valve spring is under pressure. Remove retaining pin carefully in order to avoid possible injury.
3. Remove gears from pump body. Remove cotter pin securing spring and pressure regulator valve. Remove valve and spring.

1. Inspect components for damage. Using straightedge and feeler gauge, measure gear end clearance. Measure housing pocket depth and diameter. Measure gear diameter and length (thickness). Measure side clearance between gear tooth and housing.
2. Measure gear lash clearance between gear teeth. Check clearance between pressure regulator valve and bore. Replace components or entire assembly if not within specification. See «OIL PUMP SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e) table.

OIL PUMP SPECIFICATIONS

Note. Use only original equipment gaskets for oil pump service, as gasket thickness is critical.

Reassembly & Installation

1. Coat all components with engine oil. To reassemble, reverse disassembly procedure using NEW pump cover gasket. If installing new pick-up tube, apply Sealant (1050026) to pick-up tube. Install pick-up tube into pump cover using Suction Pipe Installer (J-21882) and plastic hammer.
2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure pump extension shaft is fully engaged. Tighten oil pump bolt to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/pontiac/grand-am/v-1998-2005/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-34l-v6-vin-e__torque-specifications) .

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

CRANKSHAFT, MAIN BEARINGS & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS SPECIFICATIONS

CRANKSHAFT, MAIN & CONNECTING ROD BEARINGS

CONNECTING RODS SPECIFICATIONS

CONNECTING RODS

PISTONS, PISTON PINS & PISTON RINGS SPECIFICATIONS

PISTONS, PINS & RINGS

CYLINDER BLOCK SPECIFICATIONS

CYLINDER BLOCK

ENGINE VALVES & VALVE SPRINGS SPECIFICATIONS

VALVES & VALVE SPRINGS

CYLINDER HEAD SPECIFICATIONS

CYLINDER HEAD

CAMSHAFT SPECIFICATIONS

CAMSHAFT

See also:
• REFRIGERANT RECOVERY/RECYCLING
• JACKING & HOISTING
• CHARGING A/C SYSTEM
• FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE
• TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
• UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD
• ROCKER ARM & VALVE LASH ADJUSTER
• COOLING SYSTEM BLEEDING