GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

For control arms and components, refer to

Control Arm and Components (2WD)


Object Number: 157091  Size: LF
(1)Cam
(2)Upper Control Arm Bushing
(3)Upper Control Arm (15 Series)
(4)Nut
(5)Upper Ball Joint
(6)Brake Hose Bracket
(7)Upper Control Arm to Frame Nut
(8)Upper Ball Joint Nut
(9)Brake Hose Bracket Screw
(10)Upper Control Arm (25/35 Series)
(11)Lower Control Arm Bushing
(12)Lower Control Arm Bumper
(13)Lower Control Arm Bumper Nut
(14)Lower Ball Joint Cotter Pin
(15)Lower Ball Joint
(16)Lower Ball Joint Nut
(17)Lower Control Arm
(18)Lower Control Arm Bushing
(19)Front Coil Spring
(20)Front Coil Spring Upper Insulator
(21)Lower Control Arm to Frame Bolts
(22)Lower Control Arm to Frame Nut
(23)Upper Control Arm to Frame Nut
(24)Cams
(25)Upper Control Arm to Frame Bolts
.

Tools Required

J 23028-A Coil Spring Remover and Installer

  1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist so that the control arms hang free.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Remove the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement .

  4. Object Number: 130891  Size: SH
  5. Cradle the lower control arm. Use the J 23028-A , secured to the end of a suitable jack.
  6. Remove the stabilizer shaft from the lower control arm. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement .
  7. 5.1. Raise the jack in order to relieve tension on the lower control arm pivot bolts.
    5.2. Secure the spring with a chain through the spring and the control arm.
  8. Remove the pivot bolts and nuts.
  9. 6.1. Take the rear pivot bolt out first.
    6.2. Lower the control arm by lowering the jack.
    6.3. When compression is removed from the coil spring, take the chain away.
  10. Remove the coil spring and the insulator.
  11. Position the coil spring properly for easy removal.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 156981  Size: SH
  1. Install the coil spring and the insulator on the lower control arm.
  2. • The coil spring is installed with the tape at the lowest position, and a gripper notch at the top (2).
    • Inspection drain holes (3). One hole must be covered by the end of the spring, and one hole must be open.
    • Secure the spring with a chain through spring and the control arm.
    • Make sure the spring insulator (1) is on top.

    Object Number: 130891  Size: SH
  3. Support the control arm using the J 23028-A .
  4. Install the lower control arm in place on the frame. Guide the control arm into place with a pry bar.

  5. Object Number: 156979  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.

    Important: The pivot bolts must be installed in the proper direction.

    The nuts must be tightened with the control arm at Z height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection in Suspension General Diagnosis.

    The front nut must be tightened before the rear nut.

  6. Install the pivot bolts and the new nuts.
  7. 4.1. Insert and tighten the front bolt first.
    4.2. Remove the chain and the jack.

    Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 137 N·m (101 lb ft).

  8. Install the stabilizer shaft. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement .
  9. Install the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement .
  10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.