GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36202 Torsion Bar Unloading/Loading Tool

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .

  2. Object Number: 360742  Size: SH
  3. Install the J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the crossmember .
  4. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm until the load is removed from the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.

  5. Object Number: 793274  Size: SH

    Important: Mark the adjustment bolt and count the number of times that is required to remove the adjustment bolt.

  6. Remove the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.
  7. Remove the J 36202 , allowing the torsion bar to unload.
  8. Remove the adjustment arm by sliding the torsion bar forward until the torsion bar clears the adjustment arm. Use your hand to support the adjustment arm as the adjustment arm releases from the torsion bar.

  9. Object Number: 793276  Size: SH
  10. Remove the torsion bar crossmember nuts and the bolts.
  11. Remove the torsion bar crossmember.
  12. Important: Note the position of the torsion bars as the left and right bars are different.

    Important: Note the position of the torsion bar adjusters, as the left adjuster and the right adjuster are different.

  13. Remove the torsion bars.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the torsion bars.
  2. Install the torsion bar crossmember.
  3. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 793276  Size: SH
  4. Install the torsion bar crossmember bolts and the nuts.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 110 N·m (81 lb ft).


    Object Number: 360742  Size: SH
  6. While supporting the adjustment arm, slide the torsion bar rearward until the torsion bar fully engages the adjustment arm.
  7. Install the J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the crossmember.
  8. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm in order to load the torsion bar.

  9. Object Number: 793274  Size: SH

    Important: Install the adjustment bolt the same amount of turns that were required to remove the bolt during removal.

  10. Install the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.
  11. Remove the J 36202 releasing the tension on the torsion bar until the load is taken up by the adjustment bolt.
  12. Lower the vehicle.
  13. Measure the Z height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .

  14. Object Number: 793275  Size: SH
  15. Turn the adjustment bolt clockwise to increase the Z height and counterclockwise to decrease the Z height.