Changes have been made to the dry-sump engine oil system used in the 2009 Corvette
(fig. 1). This information pertains to these two engines:

            - LS7 7.0L -- used in the Z06

            - LS9 6.2L -- used in the ZR1

TIP: See the August 2005 TechLink for more information on the dry-sump oil system.

The expanded performance envelope of the LS9 requires modifications to the dry sump system originally used on the LS7. The capacity of the lubrication system has been increased and scavenge performance improved to meet the demands of Chevrolet's highest-ever peformance sports car. Many of these modifications also apply to the LS7. Changes affect the LS9 oil pump, oil cooler, and oil pan, and the LS7/LS9 oil filter and dry sump oil reservoir.

OIL PUMP

The dry sump system uses a dual gerotor oil pump, one rotor for scavenge and one rotor for supply (fig. 2). The pump used on the LS9 produces greater volume and higher system oil pressure to provide adequate oil delivery under all conditions.

The LS9 uses eight oil squirters, one per cylinder, for additional lubrication of the pistons and cylinder walls (fig. 3).

OIL PAN AND OIL COOLER

Both LS7 and LS9 use basically the same oil pan (fig. 4). On the 2006-09 LS7, oil is
routed from the pan to an external engine oil cooler located in front of the coolant radiator. The 2009 LS9 uses the same pan with a different design oil cooler that is mounted on the left side of oil pan (fig. 5).

A  Oil passages

B  Coolant fittings

DRY SUMP OIL RESERVOIR

For both engines, the oil reservoir has been redesigned to increase the oil capacity of the system. Under extreme cornering loads such as experienced on a banked race track, extra oil capacity ensures that there is sufficient oil in the reservoir to avoid the ingesting of air due to slosh. A second tank is connected to the main tank by tubing (fig. 6).

A  Original reservoir

B  Added capacity

The dipstick in the oil tank indicates the oil level as before. See SI for details.

TIP: The engine must be warmed up to 175° F (80° C) and turned off before checking the
oil level. It is important to check the oil level at least 5 minutes after engine shutdown, but
no longer than 15 minutes. This allows oil to return from the top of the engine and prevents oil from draining back into the oil pan.

OIL CAPACITY AND CHANGE

Due to the revised oil reservoir, on both engines the oil capacity is now 10.5 quarts instead of 8.0 quarts, but otherwise the oil change procedure remains the same. Remember, there are two drain plugs in the oil pan. The one on the front of the pan drains the external reservoir and hoses. The other plug near the oil filter drains about a quart of residual oil from the pan. Refer to SI for details.

HIGH PRESSURE OIL FILTER

GM Powertrain has released a new oil filter for the 2009 Corvette. The new design UPF48R oil filter will be used on the following applications:

            - LS7 7.0L -- Z06

            - LS9 6.2L -- ZR1

With the addition of piston oil cooling nozzles and other unique lubrication system requirements, a new design dual-rotor oil pump is required for the LS9 application. The new design oil pump produces greater volume and higher system oil pressure. To meet those requirements, a new oil filter with higher burst strength is required.

The Ultraguard™ Gold UPF48R filter (U for Ultra and R for Racing) is black in color, has a thicker exterior shell, and can be identified as p/n 12626224 (fig. 7).

TIP: The internal components are the same in both the UPF48R and PF48 oil filters.
The UPF48R can be used in applications where the PF48 is specified.

TIP: The UPF48R is required for LS9 applications and is also used for the LS7 application as both engines are built at GM's Performance Build Center.

- Thanks to Ron Minoletti and Bryan Pryor

The current version of the VDR Host Application software is version 18. For version 15 and earlier, to update to the current version, you must go to the GM Dealer Equipment website (www.gmde.net) to download the latest version. From the GMDE home page, click the Support link at the top, and select VDR Downloads. Click the link VDR Download Instructions for information on downloading and updating the VDR Host Application.

If your current version is version 16 or greater, the VDR Host Application can check for updates and give you the option to download and install. To check for updates to the VDR Host Application, click the Help menu and select Check for Updates (fig. 8). If an updated version is available, you will be informed and given the option to download and install the update at that time.

- Thanks to Keith Kelly

Refer to bulletin 07-08-49-020B for details.

When replacing an Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), the season odometer value needs to
be programmed into the new IPC. A table in bulletin 07-08-49-020B can be used as a reference guide to help identify what odometer programming method to use. The table lists most 2003-09 passenger cars and trucks (including Saturn), HUMMER H2, and HUMMER H3.

The table in the bulletin lists the component where the season odometer value is stored.

At present, there are three programming methods used:

- the Service Programming System (SPS)

- using the Electronic Service Center (ESC)

- the Tech 2 -- used to program the season odometer value in an exchanged BCM.
An exchanged IPC receives and displays the odometer value from the BCM, over the
serial data circuit, after cycling the ignition or driving the vehicle.

TIP: The updated table is available in the Reference Guide of the TechLink website.

- Thanks to Dan Oden

IMPORTANT: This replaces the information that appeared in the October 2007 TechLink. The items shown in red have changed.

The Oil Life Monitor (OLM) for the Saturn ASTRA can be reset manually by following the procedure below.

1. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

2. Press the instrument panel (I/P) cluster stem until the odometer is displayed.

3. Press and hold the cluster stem until the letters InSP are displayed (approx 3 seconds).

4. Keep pressing the cluster stem and also depress the brake pedal, holding both down.

5. Holding both the cluster stem and the brake pedal down, turn the ignition key to ON/RUN.

6. Continue to hold both down until the service interval display changes.

7. After approximately 10 seconds the I/P displays InSP 10,000 mls.

8. If the letters InSP and the remaining mileage for the next oil change appear in the instrument cluster display, the system is properly reset.

- Thanks to Jeff Gorenflo and Dan Fernandez

This information applies to these Saab vehicles: 1995-98 900, 1999-2002 9-3 Sedan, 2003 9-3 Convertible, and1999-2008 9-5.

The remote keyless entry (RKE)/central locking may be intermittently inoperative or the radio does not shut off when removing the key. This concern may be difficult to duplicate, and no DTCs are set.

If the B+ (plunger) switch in the ignition switch sticks in/on when removing the ignition key, these conditions will be present. When B+ voltage is present it supplies fuse 5 in panel 22a. This fuse supplies DICE and TWICE a key in ignition signal, disabling RKE. This condition is often caused by liquids or debris entering into the lock cylinder, causing the cylinder not to fully release upon key removal. The center portion of the cylinder should pop up when the key is removed.

To repair this condition, carefully remove the immobilizer antenna (if equipped) from around the ignition switch to check for evidence of spilled liquids. If residue is found, remove the ignition lock cylinder and inspect the cylinder and switch for binding. It may be possible to clean the key cylinder by soaking it in warm soapy water; then blowing it out with compressed air and lubing the lock cylinder with light machine oil before re-installing.
If the cylinder still binds, it should be replaced. If residue is found in the switch, it must be replaced. The key cylinders can be ordered keyed to the vehicle.

TIP: The antenna for the RKE is mounted in the center console by the rear ashtray.

- Thanks to Jeff Gorenflo

The Electric Parking Brake (EPB) is new on the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V as standard content (fig. 9). The Electric Parking Brake takes the place of the manual parking brake system,
the foot pedal and release handle. Vehicles with EPB have a switch in the center console. The system has two warning lights identified as BRAKE and (P) and five Driver Information Center (DIC) messages. In case of insufficient electrical power, the EPB cannot be applied or released.

The BRAKE light (fig. 10 -- U.S. and fig. 11 -- Canada) is used for all apply and release functions as well as "hard" failures which require the vehicle to be towed to the dealer.
The (P) light (fig. 12) is used only to indicate there is a problem with the Park Brake System. The vehicle can be driven to the dealer, but is functioning at a reduced level.

FUNCTIONS

EPB Apply - The EPB can be applied any time the vehicle is stopped. The EPB is applied by momentarily lifting up on the EPB switch. Once fully applied, the BRAKE light is on, and the DIC message Park Brake Set is displayed. If the BRAKE light does not come on, or is flashing, the vehicle requires service. Do not drive the vehicle if the BRAKE light is flashing.

- If the EPB is applied while the vehicle is in motion, a chime will sound, and the DIC message Release Park Brake Switch will be displayed. The vehicle will decelerate as long as the switch is held in the up position. Releasing the EPB switch during the deceleration will release the parking brake. If the switch is held in the up position until the vehicle comes to a stop, the EPB will remain applied.

- If the BRAKE light is on, either the EPB is applied, or there is a failure in the hydraulic brake system.

- If the BRAKE light is flashing, the EPB is only partially applied or partially released, or there is a problem with the EPB. The DIC message Service Park Brake will be displayed.
If the BRAKE light is flashing, release the EPB, and attempt to apply it again. If the BRAKE light continues to flash, do not drive the vehicle.

- If the BRAKE light is on, the EPB has detected an error in another system and is operating with reduced functionality. To apply the EPB when the BRAKE light is on, lift up on the EPB switch and hold it in the up position. Full application of the parking brake by the EPB system may take a longer period of time than normal when the BRAKE light is on. Continue to hold the switch until the BRAKE light remains on. If the BRAKE light is on, the vehicle requires service.

- If the EPB fails to apply, the rear wheels should be blocked to prevent vehicle movement.

EPB Release - To release the EPB, turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position, apply and hold the brake pedal, and push down momentarily on the EPB switch. If you attempt to release the EPB without the brake pedal applied, a chime will sound, and the DIC message Press Brake Pedal to Release Park Brake will be displayed. The EPB is released when the BRAKE light is off and the DIC message Park Brake Released is displayed.

TIP: Be sure that the parking brake is fully released and the BRAKE warning light is off before driving.

- If the BRAKE light is on, the EPB has detected an error in another system and is operating with reduced functionality. To release the EPB when the BRAKE light is on, push down on the EPB switch and hold it in the down position. EPB release may take a longer period of time than normal when the BRAKE light is on. Continue to hold the switch until the BRAKE light is off. If the BRAKE light is on, the vehicle requires service.

Automatic EPB Release - The EPB will automatically release if the vehicle is running, placed into gear and an attempt is made to drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration when the EPB is applied, to preserve park brake lining life. The EPB can also be used to prevent roll-back for vehicles with a manual transmission taking off on a hill. In a situation where no roll-back is desired, an applied EPB will allow both feet to be used for the clutch and accelerator pedals in preparation for starting the vehicle moving in the intended direction. In this situation, perform the normal clutch and accelerator actions required to begin moving the vehicle. There is no need to push the switch to release the EPB.

DIC WARNINGS AND MESSAGES

- Park Brake Released - This message displays when the parking brake has been released from the set position.

- Park Brake Set - This message displays when the parking brake has been applied to the set position.

- Press Brake Pedal to Release Park Brake - This message displays if you try to release the park brake system without first pressing the brake pedal.

- Release Park Brake Switch - This message displays if the Park Brake switch is pulled while the vehicle is moving.

- Service Park Brake - This message displays if a problem is detected with the electric parking brake system that requires dealer/retailer service.

- Thanks to Amy Talerico

The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) range for the 2008 Saturn ASTRA is 15 to 30 feet (5 to
10 meters), depending on vehicle surroundings, location and the angle of approach.
The antenna for the RKE is part of the Steering Column Module (CIM), mounted on the steering column under the steering wheel and is not available separately.

When attempting to diagnose a range issue, test and compare a like vehicle under similar conditions.

Also verify that the RKE battery has adequate voltage.

- Thanks to Jeff Gorenflo

Owners of some 2007-08 Escalade. Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Sierra, or Yukon vehicles may comment that the Driver Information Center (DIC) is indicating Hood Ajar despite the hood being closed and latched. Comments of the Remote Vehicle Start (RVS) being inoperative may also be reported.

The root cause may be the hood latch switch wires being cut or chafed, allowing the wires to intermittently ground to the metal hood latch. If the hood latch wiring is cut or damaged, replace the hood latch assembly.

TIP: The hood latch switch is not available separately.

- Thanks to Jim Will

The owner of a 2008 Tahoe or Yukon Two-Mode Hybrid equipped with a 2ML70 Transmission (RPO M99) may comment that the vehicle will not start or the engine will not crank. There may be one or a combination of DTCs P0A3F, P0A40, P0A45, P0A46, P1B03, P1B04.

The concern may be caused by loose pin terminals or backed out terminals at the transmission 24-way pass-through connector X176. Refer to SI document 1985309 item 3 for the connector location. Repair or replace terminals as necessary.

- Thanks to Chuck Krepp

Here's information about the service technician training planned for the Two-mode Hybrid vehicle.

The GM Service Technical College will be releasing a new Web-based course this month and is also planning to have an accompanying Hands-On course release in July.
The following information identifies current training available to service technicians and what is planned for the future.

U.S. dealers -- for a complete list of Two-mode Hybrid information listing courses and prerequisite information, refer to the flyer located on the GM Training Website at www.gmtraining.com under Resources>Communications and search for keyword “Hybrid.”

* Canadian dealers -- for a complete list of courses and prerequisite information, refer to
the GM Canada Product Service Training Course Catalog located on GM infoNET under Service & Body Training.

- Thanks to Rebecca Farrand and Ron Myers

Owners of some 2007-08 Silverados and Sierras (excluding Denali) may comment on
one or more of these conditions:

1. IP back-lighting inoperative

2. Radio sound inoperative or cutting off

3. IPC warning indicators coming on

4. No crank

5. Radio inoperative

When checking for DTCs, there may be several low speed LAN communication codes.
Also the radio and/or ISLPS fuses may be blown. These concerns could be caused by
an IP harness shorted behind the center IP HVAC vent. A trim screw used to attach part
of the HVAC ducting may cut into the IP harness and short out various wires (fig. 13).
Owner concerns will vary depending on which wires are shorted.

A. Trim screw

B. IP harness

C. X212 connector

Repair any damaged wiring and reposition the IP harness away from the trim screw to prevent further chafing.

- Thanks to Jim Will

On a 2008 Tahoe or Yukon Hybrid with RPO HP2, there may be no brake assist (hard pedal) after disconnecting the battery. This may also be followed by an ABS and red brake lamp with a possible DTC C121D 00 and C056D 00 being set in the EBCM. This may be caused by an improper 12v battery disconnect procedure.

When disconnecting the battery, it is necessary to wait for at least one minute with the ignition in the off position before disconnecting the negative battery cable.

IMPORTANT: During this one minute wait period, it is critical that the key does not pause in the ACCESSORY mode, During this period it is also critical that the brake pedal is NOT depressed.

Due to programmed parameters, it is necessary to allow the brake system pressure relief procedure to occur without interruption. Failure to follow these steps may result in warning lamps and/or DTCs being set pertaining to interruption of the pressure relief procedure. Other vehicle systems may also be affected by not allowing a one minute duration for power-down.

If the 12V battery is disconnected before the completion of the brake system pressure relief procedure, the next key-on drive cycle may present a hard brake pedal with little or no brake assist.

If the vehicles battery is disconnected without waiting the one minute period, follow these steps to resolve the concern:

1. Install the negative battery cable to the battery.

2. Rotate the lever lock clockwise until an audible click is heard to connect the negative battery cable to the battery (fig. 14).

A  Negative terminal lever lock

3. Position the negative battery cable insulating cover over the negative terminal.

4. Start the vehicle without stepping on the brakes.

5. Shut the vehicle off for one minute.

6. Restart vehicle and check brakes for proper operation.

7. Clear codes in the ECM and the EBCM.

- Thanks to Paul Radzwilowicz

Some owners of an Acadia, Outlook or Enclave may comment that the front row seat belts lock-up at unexpected times. The lock-up may happen in the fully retracted position or in other positions. At times the belts may seem not to unlock even after multiple attempts.

The seat belt retractor has an inertial locking mechanism that is activated if the belt webbing is pulled out rapidly, as happens during a sudden stop. This mechanism will also lock the retractor in the event of a sudden stop when the belt is retracting. For example, if the belt is pulled out and snapped back on the occupant’s chest, it may lock or if the retractor snaps quickly back to the fully retracted position, it may also lock.

Instead of replacing the parts, explain the cause of the lock-ups to the customer. Lock-ups can be avoided by controlling the speed at which the seat belts are allowed to retract. Explain that there are multiple ways to release the locking mechanism, including firmly pulling the seat belt webbing out and then releasing it again, lowering the seat belt shoulder height adjuster, and moving the seat front-back adjustment toward the back.

- Thanks to Gary McAdam

Valve body bulletins have been developed for most transmission families to encourage inspection and repair of valve bodies instead of replacement.

TIP: Most valve body labor codes allow extra time to clean and recondition.

TIP: Bulletins include actual spring dimensions (English/metric) and they are shown actual size (fig. 15). Valves and locations within the valve body are clearly defined.

TIP: You can print a page from the bulletin and lay a spring over the page to help identify it.

- Thanks to Darryl Butler

According to bulletin 08-06-05-003, some customers may comment on a rattle noise from under the IP, hood or vehicle, which may be difficult to locate.

The heat shield located just above the catalytic converter may be the cause. The shield has a metal strap on the rear (lower) side of the shield and a tack weld on the front (upper) part of the shield (fig. 16). The front weld may be broken and the front lower edges of the shield may rattle against the exhaust pipe.

A  Tack weld

B  Strap

Add a clamp p/n 10186112 -- or any hose clamp with an approximate diameter of 88 mm
(3 1/2 in) -- around the depressed section of the shield at the location of the front weld.

- Thanks to Dan Oden

According to bulletin 08-08-44-012, on some 2008 Colorado, TrailBlazer, Canyon, and Envoy models with Uplevel MP3 Radio/Receiver (RPO US8), the engine may not crank. The vehicle's battery is dead or in a low state of charge.

This may be caused by the radio remaining powered up, after the ignition is turned off, waiting for a CD player auto-reload to be completed, resulting in a battery draw.

Reprogram the radio. Do not replace the radio or Body Control Module (BCM).

A revised calibration has been developed to address this condition. Reprogram the radio using SPS with the latest software available on TIS2WEB. Refer to the Service Programming System (SPS) procedure in SI for more information. Be sure your Tech 2 is updated with the latest software version.

- Thanks to Dan Oden

On an Acadia, Outlook, or Enclave, the power window buttons may stick in the driver's door trim switch bezel. The switch may not be properly oriented in the opening of the door trim bezel.

Orient the switch rearward in the door trim bezel by loosening the 3 switch to door trim attaching screws, moving the switch rearward in the door and re-tightening the screws.
It should not be necessary to replace the switch to correct this condition.

- Thanks to Gary McAdam

RPO UUI

The UUI radio is equipped with a USB port on the faceplate for connecting peripheral devices (fig. 17). This radio is used in the 2009 G5, G6, Solstice, Aura, Sky, Malibu, Cobalt and HHR.

The owner will have iPOD command and control and will have playback capability with a USB memory stick ("thumb drive").

iPOD Functionality

The radio will have control of the Apple iPOD audio files via the USB cable. The iPOD will be charged while connected with the radio turned on. The radio has the ability to detect and play when the iPOD is connected.

These devices are supported:

iPod Gen 5 and 5.5

iPod Nano Gen 1

iPod Nano Gen 2

iPod Nano Gen 3

iPod Classic

iPod Touch

iPhone*

and most USB memory sticks and external USB hard drives.

* The iPhone, when updated to firmware 1.1 or later, will work with USB Command and Control. However, it is recommended that the user switch the iPhone to airplane mode
and thus turn off the phone features. If the user does not switch to airplane mode, they
may experience speaker static and interference.

These devices are not supported:

iPod Shuffle Gen 1

iPod Shuffle Gen 2

iPod mini Gen1 and 2

iPod Photo

iPod G4

iPod Gen 1

iPod Gen 2

iPod Gen 3

Additional devices not supported with Command and Control:

USB hubs

Macintosh style partitions on external hard drives

Microsoft Zune

Archos

Creative Labs

iRiver

MobiBlu

Phillips

SanDisk

Super Talent

Toshiba

Cowon

TIP: The listed non-supported devices may be able to function through the USB port if the user sets the device to MSC (Mass Storage Class) or MSD (Mass Storage Device).

TIP: If the customer receives a “Device Not Supported” message on the UUI radio with an iPod, and they have a supported device, or they are experiencing radio anomalies with the iPod (connection problems, iPod lock ups, radio lock ups, etc.), it may be necessary to reset the iPod (typically done by pressing and holding the Menu and Center buttons on the iPod). Additionally, the customer may need to download the latest firmware from the Apple website. See www.apple.com for more details.

Other Operating Conditions

TIP: The following are known operating conditions and do not indicate a fault with the radio.

- The repeat mode on the iTOUCH phone does not work on the first version of iPOD firmware.

- It may take up to 20 seconds for the iPOD to connect, depending on the sleep mode state
it is in. The radio could start up in tuner mode, even though the iPOD was the last known source of the radio. After the iPOD wakes up, it will connect and auto-source to the USB port.

- Not all external hard-drives will function (must be formatted correctly). Radio performance may be slow, particularly when searching for songs near the bottom memory locations.

- Some USB memory sticks respond very slowly and may have intermittent connectivity issues.

- USB memory sticks with U3 technology (U3 smart drives) will not function with U3 enabled. See the specific manufacturer's website to determine if U3 can be turned off or removed.

- With some USB devices, the radio may display NO MEDIA FILES if the music is not in the root directory of the memory stick.

- Thanks to Kevin Fondaw and Bianca Muminovic

The owner of a 2007-08 Chevrolet Corvette may encounter the SES light with DTCs P0171 or P0174 found. If airflow to the Air Intake/Air Cleaner Assembly is disturbed, DTCs P0171 or P0174 may be induced.

DTCs P0171 or P0174 may be caused by an aftermarket air filter or induction systems,
as well as a gap between a body close-out panel combined with some frame plate holes
(fig. 18). These may cause an airflow disturbance to the Air Intake/Air Cleaner Assembly.

A  Close-out panel

B  Gap

TIP: This can also cause a slight engine surge that may not set a code.

Repair the gap in the panel by installing new retaining clips.

Cover the frame plate holes (fig. 19) with a good adhesive type patch (sound deadener patch) or equivalent. Clean the frame plate as necessary and install the patch so the holes are covered. No air can flow through these holes.

TIP: Contact Kent Automotive at 1.888.YES.KENT or www.kent-automotive.com to obtain sound deadener patches (Kent part number: P20617).

Evaluate the lean condition after the close-out panel gap has been repaired and frame plate holes have been covered.

TIP: Any aftermarket or non GM-approved modifications to the Air Intake/Air Cleaner Assembly must be removed before attempting repairs for the lean condition.

- Thanks to Don Langer