GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J-42188-B Ball Joint Separator

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 581252  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 electronic suspension control (ESC) sensor link.
  4. Support the lower control arm with a jackstand.

  5. Object Number: 171474  Size: SH
  6. Loosen the ball joint stud nut but do not remove the nut.
  7. Using tool J-42188-B separate the upper ball joint stud from the upper control arm.

  8. Object Number: 198410  Size: SH

    Important: The upper control arm shims will have an effect on the camber and the caster. Make sure to use an equal thickness of shims on both sides of each individual upper control arm bushing.

  9. Remove the upper control arm bolts and shims. Note the number and position of the shims for installation purposes.
  10. Remove the upper control arm from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 198410  Size: SH
  1. Install the upper control arm to the vehicle.
  2. Important: The upper control arm shims will have an effect on the camber and the caster. Make sure to use an equal thickness of shims on both sides of each individual upper control arm bushing.

  3. Install the upper control arm shims.
  4. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  5. Install the upper control arm mounting bolts to the upper control arm and frame rail.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the upper control arm mounting bolts to 65 N·m (48 lb ft).


    Object Number: 171474  Size: SH
  7. Install the upper ball joint stud into the upper control arm. It will be necessary to use an allen wrench to keep the ball joint stud from spinning while tightening the ball joint stud nut.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the upper control arm ball joint stud nut to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) plus 250 degrees.


    Object Number: 581252  Size: SH
  9. Connect the ESC sensor link.
  10. Remove the jackstand.
  11. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  12. Lower the vehicle.