GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J-42188-B Ball Joint Separator

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 919156  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  3. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor electrical connector.
  4. Disconnect the electronic suspension control sensor link. Refer to Electronic Suspension Rear Position Sensor Replacement.

  5. Object Number: 340932  Size: SH
  6. Using the J 42188 , separate the suspension knuckle (1) from the upper control arm.
  7. Support the lower control arm with a jack stand.
  8. Loosen the upper ball joint stud nut, but do not remove the nut.

  9. Object Number: 922525  Size: SH
  10. Remove the bolts retaining the upper control arm to the frame.
  11. Remove the upper control arm from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 922525  Size: SH
  1. Install the upper control arm to the vehicle.
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the upper control arm mounting bolts and to the frame.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the upper control arm mounting bolts to 110 N·m (81 lb ft).

  5. Install the suspension knuckle upper ball joint stud into the upper control arm.
  6. It may be necessary to use an Allen wrench to keep the ball joint stud from spinning while tightening the ball joint stud nut.

  7. Install the upper ball joint stud nut.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the suspension knuckle ball joint stud nut to 30 N·m (22 lb ft) plus 195 degrees.


    Object Number: 919156  Size: SH
  9. Connect the wheel speed sensor electrical connector.
  10. Connect the electronic suspension control sensor link. Refer to Electronic Suspension Rear Position Sensor Replacement.
  11. Remove the jack stand from the lower control arm.
  12. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. Perform a rear wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement.