GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 41602 Body Protection Hoist Adapter Set

Removal Procedure

  1. Install the J 41602 to the hoist and raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Support the rear axle.

  3. Object Number: 178961  Size: SH
  4. Remove the lower shock absorber mounting bolt.

  5. Object Number: 596441  Size: SH
  6. Remove the leaf spring U-bolt and the lower plate retaining nuts.
  7. Remove the leaf spring U-bolt.
  8. Remove the lower plate.

  9. Object Number: 178954  Size: SH
  10. Remove the anchor plate.
  11. Notice: Do not let the axle hang by the brake hose. Damage to the hose may occur. Always support the axle and the body separately.

  12. Lower the rear axle away from the leaf spring.

  13. Object Number: 178951  Size: SH
  14. Remove the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut and the bolt.

  15. Object Number: 178950  Size: SH
  16. Remove the leaf spring to hanger mounting nut and the bolt.
  17. Remove the leaf spring from the hanger.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 178950  Size: SH
  1. Install the leaf spring to the vehicle.
  2. Install the leaf spring to hanger mounting bolt and the nut.

  3. Object Number: 178951  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.

  4. Install the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting bolt and the nut.
  5. Tighten

        • Tighten the leaf spring to hanger mounting nut to 100 N·m (74 lb ft).
        • Tighten the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut to 100 N·m (74 lb ft).
  6. Raise the rear axle so that the rear axle is touching the leaf spring.

  7. Object Number: 178954  Size: SH
  8. Install the anchor plate to the top of the leaf spring.
  9. Apply the rubber lubricant, GM P/N 12345884 or equivalent, to the insulator on the leaf spring in order to aid in installation of the anchor plate to the leaf spring.

  10. Object Number: 596430  Size: SH
  11. Install the lower plate and the U-bolt around the axle and through the anchor plate.
  12. Install the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts.
  13. Important: After tightening the fasteners to the specified torque, ensure that there is no gap between the anchor plate, the axle tube bracket, and the lower plate. The contact should be metal to metal.

  14. Starting with the inner (lower plate side) nuts, gradually tighten the mounting nuts so that the anchor plate moves uniformly, side to side, over the leaf spring.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts to 100 N·m (74 lb ft).


    Object Number: 178961  Size: SH
  16. Install the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt.
  17. Tighten
    Tighten the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt to 107 N·m (79 lb ft).

  18. Lower the vehicle.
  19. Remove the J 41602 , if necessary.
  20. Adjust the trim height of the vehicle. Refer to Trim Height Inspection in Suspension General Diagnosis.