Flex Plate: Service and Repair

2012 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD V8-5.3LSECTION Service and Repair



Automatic Transmission Flex Plate Replacement

Removal Procedure




1. Remove the automatic transmission. Refer to Transmission Replacement Transmission Replacement for the 6L45/6L50/6L80/6L90 transmission.

Note: Note the position and direction of the engine flywheel before removal.

2. Remove the flywheel bolts.
3. Remove the flywheel.




4. Install two M11x1.5 mm bolts (1) to the threaded holes of the spacer, if applicable.
5. Rotate the bolts clockwise to remove the spacer.




6. Remove the spacer from the rear of the crankshaft, if applicable.

Installation Procedure

Note:
* The flywheel does not use a locating pin for alignment and will not initially seat against the crankshaft flange or spacer, if applicable, but will be pulled onto the crankshaft by the engine flywheel bolts. This procedure requires a three stage tightening process.
* Certain applications (6.0L) require a spacer and longer bolts for proper flywheel position.




1. Install the spacer, if applicable, onto the rear of the crankshaft.





Note: Longer flywheel bolts must be used on applications using a flywheel spacer.

2. Install the flywheel and bolts to the crankshaft.
3. Apply threadlock to the threads of the flywheel bolts. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers for the correct part number.





Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

4. Tighten the flywheel bolts.

* Tighten the bolts (1-6) a first pass in sequence to 20 Nm (15 lb ft).
* Tighten the bolts (1-6) a second pass in sequence to 50 Nm (37 lb ft).
* Tighten the bolts (1-6) a final pass in sequence to 100 Nm (74 lb ft).

5. Install the automatic transmission. Refer to Transmission Replacement Transmission Replacement for the 6L45/6L50/6L80/6L90 transmission.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.