GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 156925  Size: SH

The frame is a rubber isolated sub-frame in the front of the vehicle. The frame supports the engine and the transaxle. The frame provides the mounting point for the front suspension lower control arms. The frame in the upper illustration is normal. Any misalignment of the frame, as shown, causes a misalignment of the front wheels. Movement of the frame usually causes an increase in caster on one side of the vehicle and a decrease in caster on the other side of the vehicle. This can cause the following conditions:

    • Cause the exhaust system to bind up
    • Cause problems with the control cables
    • Cause unacceptable noises and/or sounds

Check the frame for any obvious damage. In the illustration, the frame (1) is moved toward the rear. The left lower control arm and the left ball joint are moved toward the rear, changing the caster on the left side only. The top of the strut cannot move because the strut is mounted to the strut tower in the body.