GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 2002 🢒 Eldorado 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Suspension General Diagnosis 🢒 Coil Spring Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 254474 Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Support the outboard end of the lower control arm with a suitable jack to securely hold the control arm in position.
  4. Remove the stabilizer shaft link lower mounting bolt.

    5. Object Number: 161652 Size: SH
  5. Remove the shock absorber lower mounting bolt.
  6. Disconnect the automatic level control sensor link from the lower control arm.
  7. Slowly lower the control arm down with jack until spring pressure is released.
  8. Pull the lower control arm downward to remove the spring.

Installation Procedure

    Important: To insure proper orientation of the spring, rest the spring (without insulators) on a flat surface. The spring will stand up straight when resting on its lower end, but will lean or tip when resting on its top end.

  1. Install the coil spring.
  2. Raise a jack under the outboard end of the lower control arm.

    3. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Insert the knuckle onto the control arm and attach the nut.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the lower control arm nut to 102 N·m (75 lb ft).


    Object Number: 161652 Size: SH
  4. Attach the shock absorber lower mounting bolt.

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber lower mounting nut to 102 N·m (75 lb ft).


    Object Number: 254474 Size: SH
  5. Install the stabilizer shaft link lower mounting bolt.

    6. Important: Before lowering the vehicle onto its wheels (or before driving the vehicle, if it was not on a lift) turn the ignition on and wait approximately 45 seconds. This will permit the ALC system to execute the ARC, ensuring that the air adjustable shock absorbers are filled with residual pressure.

  6. Lower the vehicle to allow the suspension to obtain the designed trim height. The inner control arm nuts must be tightened in the designed position to reduce wind up in the bushings. Refer to Trim Height Specifications .

    7. Tighten

    • Tighten the lower control arm inner nuts to 108 N·m (80 lb ft).
    • Tighten the stabilizer link lower attachment to 52 N·m (38 lb ft).
  7. Install the wheel and tire.

    8. Tighten
    Tighten the wheel nuts to 190 N·m (140 lb ft).