GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Support the rear axle.
  3. Remove the spare tire on pickups and 4 door utility models, if necessary.
  4. Disconnect rear exhaust hangers and lower exhaust system, if necessary.
  5. Remove the fuel tank on 2 door utility models. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L
  6. Remove the EVAP canister on 2 door utiltiy models, if necessary. Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L.

  7. Object Number: 497441  Size: SH
  8. Remove the following parts:
  9. • The frame to spring shackle nut
    • The washers
    • The frame to spring shackle bolt
  10. Remove the following parts:
  11. • The spring shackle to leaf spring nut
    • The washers
    • The spring shackle to leaf sprng bolt
  12. Remove the shackle from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 497441  Size: SH
  1. Install the spring shackle to the vehicle.
  2. Install the following parts:
  3. • The spring shackle to the leaf spring bolt
    • The washers
    • The spring shackle to the leaf spring nut
    • Do not tighten the nut.
  4. Install the following parts:
  5. • The frame to the spring shackle bolt
    • The washers
    • The frame to the spring shackle nut
    • Do not tighten the nut.

    Object Number: 497445  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.

  6. Support the axle so that there is a distance of 164 mm to 176 mm (6.46 in to 6.94 in) between the axle tube and the metal surface of the bumper bracket (1).
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the spring shackle nuts to 122 N·m (89 lb ft).

  8. Install the EVAP canister on 2 door utiltiy models, if necessary. Refer to Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L.
  9. Install the fuel tank on 2 door utility models. Refer to Fuel Tank Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3L
  10. Raise exhaust system and connect rear exhaust hangers, if necessary.
  11. Install the spare tire on pickups and 4 door utility models, if necessary.
  12. Remove rear axle support.
  13. Lower the vehicle.