Genuine 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cylinder Head

1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: What are the steps involved in removing and overhauling the cylinder heads in V6 engine on 1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass?

  A: On vehicles equipped with AIR, disconnect the rubber hose at the injection tubing check valve to avoid removing the tubing from the exhaust manifold. Remove the intake manifold and drain the coolant from the engine. When removing the right cylinder head, loosen and remove all drivebelts, tag and remove generator wires, and for vehicles with air conditioning, remove the compressor from the mounting bracket and position it out of the way with the hoses connected, then remove the generator complete with bracket. For the left cylinder head, remove the oil dipstick rod and tube, and if applicable, remove the power steering gear pump complete with mounting bracket and move it out of the way with the hoses attached. Mark the position of the spark plug wires with tape, disconnect them, and remove the spark plug wire clips from the rocker arm cover studs. Remove the exhaust manifold and bolts, then carefully clean the dirt and grease from the cylinder head, valve cover, and surrounding area to prevent grit from entering the engine, as this can damage the hydraulic valve lifters. Remove the rocker arm cover attaching bolts and lift the rocker arm cover off the cylinder head, breaking the gasket seal if necessary without prying on the sealing surfaces. Keep pushrods, lifters, or other valve mechanism components separate and in order for re-installation, using a numbered rack or cardboard with holes. Remove the bolts holding the rocker arm shaft assembly to the cylinder head and lift off the assembly, placing the pushrods in the numbered rack or cardboard. Loosen the cylinder head bolts gradually and remove them, keeping track of bolt length and location. Lift the cylinder head off the engine, using a hammer and block of wood to tap upwards at each end if it is stuck. Set the cylinder head on wood blocks to prevent damage. At this point, decide whether to overhaul the cylinder heads yourself or exchange them for new or rebuilt units available at GM dealers or auto parts stores, or take them to a competent machine shop or GM dealer for the overhaul process, especially if the complete engine is being overhauled simultaneously. If choosing to overhaul the cylinder heads, gain an understanding of the necessary steps, tools, and replacement parts involved.