1998 - 2002 Corvette: Service Bulletin: Needle Bearings Found In Oil Pan (Replace Rocker Arms)

Subject: Needle Bearings Found In Oil Pan (Replace Rocker Arms)
Source: Chevrolet Dealer Technical Service Bulletin
Number: 02-06-01-029

Models:
1998-2002 Chevrolet Camaro, Corvette
1998-2002 Pontiac Firebird
2002 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT
1999-2002 Chevrolet Silverado
2000-2002 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe
2002 Chevrolet Avalanche
1999-2002 GMC Sierra
2000-2002 GMC Yukon, Yukon XL
2003 HUMMER H2
with 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L or 6.0L V8 Engine (VINs V, T, G, S, U -- RPOs LR4, LM7, LS1, LS6, LQ4, LQ9)

Condition:

Some customers may comment or technicians may notice needle bearings being found during an engine oil change. The bearings may be found in either the drain pan used or on the magnetic oil pan drain plug.

Cause:

One or more rocker arms may have experienced a bearing failure.

Correction:

1. Inspect all of the rocker arms for bearing retainer cap failure. If one or more defective rocker arms are found, replace all 16 rocker arms. Refer to the Engine Mechanical sub-section in the appropriate Service Manual.
2. If no condition with the rocker arms is found, refer to the service history for previous rocker arm repair. If previous rocker arm repair was made, then the engine may not have been thoroughly cleaned of loose roller bearings. If no previous rocker arm repair was made, then look for another condition.
3. Remove the oil pan and clean out any additional bearings found within the oil pan. Refer to the Engine Mechanical sub-section in the appropriate Service Manual.
4. Install the oil pan. Refer to the Engine Mechanical sub-section in the appropriate Service Manual.

Parts Information