GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the steering linkage skid plate. Refer to Skid Plate Replacement - Steering Linkage in Frame and Underbody.
  3. Support the radiator core support with jacks.
  4. Remove the 2 bolts in order to separate the radiator core support from the crossmember.

  5. Object Number: 465471  Size: SH
  6. Support both front lower control arms (2) with jacks.
  7. Remove the following components in order to separate both front lower control arms from the crossmember:
  8. • The 2 bolts (1)
    • The 2 nuts
    • The 2 washers

    Object Number: 482771  Size: SH
  9. Support the steering gear (3) with jacks.
  10. Remove the 4 bolts (1) and the 4 nuts in order to separate the steering gear clamps from the crossmember.

  11. Object Number: 479356  Size: SH
  12. Support the crossmember (1) with a jack.
  13. Remove the 8 bolts (3,4,6,7,8,9,11) and the crossmember from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 479356  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the crossmember (1) with a jack.
  2. Important: Do NOT tighten the nuts and bolts completely. The weight of the vehicle must be on the wheels and tires before tightening the nuts and bolts.

  3. Secure the crossmember with the 8 bolts (3,4,6,7,8,9,11) .
  4. Remove the jack from the crossmember.
  5. 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: 482771  Size: SH
  6. Secure the steering gear clamps to the crossmember with the 4 bolts (1) and the 4 nuts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts and bolts to 55 N·m (40 lb ft).

  8. Remove the jacks from the steering gear.

  9. Object Number: 465471  Size: SH

    Important: Do NOT tighten the nuts and bolts completely. The weight of the vehicle must be on the wheels and tires before tightening the nuts and bolts.

  10. Install the following components to the front lower control arms:
  11. • The 2 bolts (1)
    • The 2 nuts
    • The 2 washers
  12. Remove the jacks from the front lower control arms.
  13. Secure the radiator core support to the crossmember with the 2 bolts.
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 25 N·m (19 lb ft).

  15. Remove the jacks from the radiator core support.
  16. Lower the vehicle.

  17. Object Number: 479356  Size: SH
  18. With the weight of the vehicle on the tires and wheels, tighten the 8 crossmember bolts (3,4,6,7,8,9,11) .
  19. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 94 N·m (68 lb ft).


    Object Number: 465471  Size: SH
  20. Tighten the front lower control arm nuts and bolts (1).
  21. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts and bolts to 85 N·m (61.5 lb ft).

  22. Install the steering linkage skid plate. Refer to Skid Plate Replacement - Steering Linkage in Frame and Underbody.
  23. Measure the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.
  24. Adjust the front toe, if necessary. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.