GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Shock Absorber Replacement RWD

Removal Procedure

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

  2. Object Number: 1820  Size: SH
  3. Remove the nut. Hold the shock absorber stem with a wrench while backing the nut off.
  4. Remove the retainer.
  5. Remove the grommet.
  6. Remove the bolts.
  7. 5.1. Pull the shock absorber out of the spring from below.
    5.2. The lower grommet and the retainer are on the stem.
    5.3. Replace the parts as necessary.
  8. Remove the nuts, if damaged or worn.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1821  Size: SH
  1. Install the retainer and the grommet on the stem. Fully extend the stem.
  2. Install the shock absorber up through the lower control arm and the spring. Insert the stem end through the hole in the upper control arm frame bracket.
  3. Install the grommet to the stem.
  4. Install the retainer to the stem.
  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.

  6. Install the shock absorber upper nut.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber upper nut to 12 N·m (106 lb in), while holding the stem with a wrench.

  8. Install new nuts, if needed.
  9. Install the shock absorber lower bolts through the pivot holes to the lower control arm holes.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber lower bolts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.

Shock Absorber Replacement 4WD

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and suitably 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. Object Number: 1918  Size: SH
  4. Remove the lower nut and bolt. Collapse the shock absorber.
  5. Remove the upper nut and bolt.
  6. Remove the shock absorber.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1918  Size: SH
  1. Install the shock absorber to the bracket.
  2. Install the upper and lower shock absorber bolts. Fit the bolts in the direction shown.
  3. 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 upper and lower shock absorber nuts.
  5. Tighten

        • Tighten the nuts and the bolts with the front suspension loaded.
        • Tighten the upper and lower shock absorber nuts to 73 N·m (54 lb ft).
  6. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  7. Lower the vehicle.