GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 21474-01 Control Arm Bushing Service Kit

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the fuel tank (2-door utilities only). Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls-4.3 L.
  3. Remove the EVAP canister (2-door utilities only). Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3 L.
  4. Remove spare tire on, if necessary.
  5. Disconnect rear exhaust hangers and lower exhaust system, if necessary.
  6. Support the rear axle.

  7. Object Number: 3243  Size: SH
  8. Remove the spring shackle to frame mounting nut and bolt.
  9. Loosen the lower spring shackle mounting bolt at the leaf spring.
  10. Leave the bolt attached.

  11. Lower the axle until there is enough clearance to remove the spring shackle bushing.
  12. Use a blunt punch to straighten out the bushing flange that comes through the inner frame.
  13. Important: Replace both of the spring shackle bushings while the fuel tank is removed from the vehicle.

  14. Remove the spring shackle bushing using J 21474-01 .
  15. Repeat steps 7 through 11 for other spring shackle bushing.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 228361  Size: SH
  1. Install the new spring shackle bushing using J 21474-01 .
  2. Pull the spring shackle bushing into the frame rail until the flanged portion of the spring shackle bushing is flush with the rail.
  3. Stake the spring shackle bushing inner flange.
  4. Raise the axle into position.

  5. Object Number: 3243  Size: SH
  6. Install the spring shackle to frame mounting bolt and nut.
  7. Do not tighten the nut.

  8. Repeat steps 1 through 6 for the other spring shackle bushing.

  9. Object Number: 3248  Size: SH
  10. Raise the axle support so that there is a distance of 164-176 mm (6.46-6.94 in) between the axle tube and the metal surface of the bumper bracket (1).
  11. 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.

  12. Tighten the spring shackle mounting nuts.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the rear spring shackle nuts to 122 N·m (89 lb ft).

  14. Remove the rear axle support.
  15. Raise the exhaust system and connect the rear exhaust hangers, if necessary
  16. Install the spare tire, if necessary.
  17. Install the EVAP canister (2-door utilities only). Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3 L.
  18. Install the fuel tank (2-door utilities only). Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls-4.3 L.
  19. Lower the vehicle.