GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36202 Torsion Bar Unloading/Loading Tool.

Removal Procedure

    Important: This procedure requires the removal of both torsion bars.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  2. Object Number: 360742  Size: SH
  3. Mark the adjustment bolt setting.
  4. Install J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the crossmember .
  5. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm until the load is removed from the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.

  6. Object Number: 348349  Size: SH
  7. Remove the adjustment bolt (3) and the adjuster nut (4) (15 Series).

  8. Object Number: 348345  Size: SH
  9. Remove the adjustment bolt (3) and the adjuster nut (4) (25 Series).
  10. Remove the J 36202 , allowing the torsion bar to unload.
  11. Remove the adjustment arm by sliding the torsion bar forward until the torsion bar clears the adjustment arm. Use your hand to support the adjustment arm as the adjustment arm releases from the torsion bar.

  12. Object Number: 348347  Size: SH
  13. Remove the torsion bar crossmember bolts (4) from the weld nuts (1) (15 Series).

  14. Object Number: 392162  Size: SH
  15. Remove the upper link mounting nuts (1) and the bolts (2) (25 Series).
  16. Remove the torsion bar crossmember.
  17. Important: Note the position of the torsion bars as the left and right bars are different.

  18. Remove the torsion bars.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the torsion bars.
  2. Install the torsion bar crossmember .

  3. Object Number: 348347  Size: SH

    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.

  4. Install the torsion bar crossmember bolts (1) to the weld nuts (4) (15 Series).
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 95 N·m (70 lb ft).


    Object Number: 392162  Size: SH
  6. Install the upper link mounting nuts (2) and the bolts (1) (25 Series).
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 95 N·m (70 lb ft).


    Object Number: 360742  Size: SH
  8. While supporting the adjustment arm, slide the torsion bar rearward until the torsion bar fully engages the adjustment arm.
  9. Install the J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the crossmember.
  10. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm in order to load the torsion bar.

  11. Object Number: 348349  Size: SH
  12. Install the adjustment bolt (3) and the adjuster nut (4) (15 Series).

  13. Object Number: 348345  Size: SH
  14. Install the adjustment bolt (3) and the adjuster nut (4) (25 Series).
  15. Remove the J 36202 releasing the tension on the torsion bar until the load is taken up by the adjustment bolt.
  16. Remove the safety stands.
  17. Lower the vehicle.
  18. Measure the Z height. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications in Wheel Alignment.

  19. Object Number: 516269  Size: SH
  20. Turn the adjustment bolt (2) clockwise to increase the Z height and counter clockwise to decrease the Z height.