GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls-4.3 L.
  3. Remove the spare tire, if necessary.
  4. Disconnect rear exhaust hangers and lower exhaust system, if necessary.
  5. Support the rear axle in order to relieve the tension on the leaf springs.

  6. Object Number: 3251  Size: SH
  7. Remove the leaf spring U-bolt retaining nuts.
  8. Rotate the anchor plate out of the way.

  9. Object Number: 3254  Size: SH
  10. Remove the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut and bolt.

  11. Object Number: 3253  Size: SH
  12. Remove the leaf spring to front bracket mounting nut and bolt.
  13. Remove the leaf spring from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 3257  Size: SH
  1. Install the leaf spring to the vehicle.
  2. Install the leaf spring to the front bracket mounting bolt and nut.
  3. Do not tighten the nut.


    Object Number: 3254  Size: SH
  4. Install the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting bolt and nuts.
  5. Do not tighten the nut.


    Object Number: 3259  Size: SH
  6. Reposition the anchor plate to the proper location.
  7. Install the leaf spring U-bolts.
  8. 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.

  9. Install the leaf spring U-bolt retaining nuts.
  10. Tighten

    1. Tighten the U-bolt nuts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft) in the sequence shown.
    2. Then tighten the U-bolt nuts to 100 N·m (73 lb ft) in the sequence shown.

    Object Number: 497445  Size: SH
  11. 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).
  12. Tighten the leaf spring mounting nuts.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the leaf spring mounting nuts to 122 N·m (89 lb ft).

  14. Remove the axle support.
  15. Raise exhaust system and connect rear exhaust hangers, if necessary.
  16. Install the spare tire, if necessary.
  17. Install the fuel tank. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls 4.3L.
  18. Lower the vehicle.