INNER TIE ROD BUSHING CREAK (REPL. TIE RODS WITH NEW P/N)

SUBJECT: INNER TIE ROD BUSHING CREAK (REPLACE TIE RODS WITH NEW ONES)

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1990-91 J/N/L CARS

Condition:

----------- Low ambient temperatures and moderate suspension travels may result in a creaking noise from the inner tie rod bushings. This noise is very similar and should not be confused with "stabilizer shaft bushing squawk." The "creak" occurs primarily at temperatures below 30 F and usually stops as the inner tie rods warm from engine heat. Lubing the inner tie rod assemblies with silicone grease may reduce the creak for a short time, but the noise will return.

Cause:

------- The creak is caused by the tie rod bushing slipping inside of the tie rod end and is due to a change in bushing material that was found to be more sensitive to suspension travels during cold temperatures.

Correction:

------------ Replace the tie rods with ones containing an improved bushing material using the procedure described in the appropriate Service Manual. For effective repair use all parts in kit, regardless of original condition.

Part Number Description ----------- ------------------------------- 26032209 Left Side inner tie-rod assembly kit 26032210 Right Side inner tie-rod assembly kit

VIN Breakpoints:

1991 Chevrolet and Pontiac vehicles built after the VIN breakpoints listed below contain the new inner tie rod bushing material.

Chevrolet J-Car Lordstown M7263422 L-Car Wilmington MY220717 L-Car Linden ME170463

Pontiac J-Car Lordstown M7626044 N-Car Lansing MC674996

Note: Buick and Oldsmobile will NOT have the new parts in vehicles until start of production (SOP) for the 1992 model year.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.