GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 42188 Ball Joint Separator


    Object Number: 171430  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Support the lower control arm with a jack stand.
  4. Disconnect the RTD sensor from upper control arm, if equipped. Refer to Rear Position Sensors in Real-Time Dampening.
  5. Loosen the ball joint stud nut but do not remove the nut.
  6. Separate the suspension knuckle (2) from the upper control arm (1) using J 42188 .
  7. Remove J 42188 and the ball joint stud nut (3) from ball joint stud.

  8. Object Number: 65318  Size: SH
  9. Remove the bolts (1) and (2) retaining the upper control arm (3) to the frame.
  10. Remove the upper control arm (3) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 65318  Size: SH
  1. Install the upper control arm (3) into the vehicle.
  2. Install the upper control arm mounting bolts (1) and (2) to the frame.
  3. Tighten
    Tighten the upper control arm mounting bolts to 110 N·m (81 lb ft).

    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.


    Object Number: 171430  Size: SH
  4. Install the upper ball joint stud into the upper control arm.
  5. It may be necessary to use an allen wrench to keep the ball joint stud from spinning while tightening the ball joint stud nut.

    Tighten

    1. Tighten the upper control arm ball joint stud nut to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) to seat the ball joint stud.
    2. Turn the ball joint stud nut an additional 4 flats.
    3. Check the ball joint nut for a minimum final torque of 45 N·m (33 lb ft).
  6. Connect the RTD sensor to control arm, if equipped. Refer to Rear Position Sensors in Real-Dampening.
  7. Remove the jack stand from the lower control arm.
  8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.
  9. Lower the vehicle.