How to Rebuild Pontiac V-8s - Updated Edition. Rocky Rotella

cause of harmonic balancer failure is improper bolt torque. That allows the balancer to shimmy on the keyway, which causes it to crack. If not caught quickly, it can cause the balancer to separate at speed or complete crankshaft failure. The harmonic balancer should be replaced if there is any sign of fatigue.

3 Remove Oil Pan

       After the cylinder heads have been removed, an engine is much easier to rotate on an engine stand. Rotate the engine 180 degrees and remove the 18 bolts that secure the oil pan to the block and timing cover with a 7/16-inch socket. The oil pan should lift up and away, but it is usually bonded to the block with RTV sealer. Position a pry bar between the oil pan lip and the block rail. Apply gentle pressure and walk the pry bar around the pan until the oil pan is free.

4 Remove Timing Cover

       Rotate the engine 180 degrees, returning it to right side up. Remove the two bolts and two nuts that secure the timing cover to the block with a 9/16-inch socket and inventory the parts. RTV sealer is often used to prevent leaks during rebuilds, and it was clearly used in this instance. Persuasion with a rubber mallet and pry bar is sometimes required to break the sealant’s bond on the timing cover.

5 Remove Timing Gear Set

       Remove the fuel pump eccentric retaining bolt with a 3/4-inch socket, and then set it aside for later use. Walk the cam gear off of the camshaft snout with a pry bar. The crankshaft gear should slide off but could also require some gentle prying. Inspect the entire timing set for signs of abnormal wear, such as excessive chain stretch or worn gear teeth. None were found here.

6 Remove Camshaft

       Remove the camshaft thrust plate with a 1/2-inch socket. Inventory the bolts and inspect the thrust plate for abnormal wear. If you don’t have a camshaft installation tool available, thread the fuel pump eccentric bolt back into the camshaft snout. It serves as something to grasp while pulling the camshaft outward from the engine. Position the camshaft far enough out so it can be firmly grabbed with one hand. The rear journal can be supported with the other hand and the cam guided through the bearings.

       Critical Inspection, Documentation Required

7 Inspect Camshaft and Lifters