GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Shock Absorber Replacement Independent

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist.

  2. Object Number: 175279  Size: SH
  3. Remove the nuts, the washers, and the bolts at the control arm.
  4. Remove the shock absorber from the lower control arm.
  5. Remove the nuts and washers at the frame.
  6. Remove the shock absorber from the frame.
  7. Inspect the shock absorbers for damage and leaks.
  8. Test the shock absorbers. Refer to Struts or Shock Absorbers Bench Test in Suspension General Diagnosis.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 175279  Size: SH
  1. Install the shock absorber onto the vehicle.
  2. 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.

  3. Install the bolts, the washers, and the nuts.
  4. Tighten

        • Tighten the shock to frame nut to 108 N·m (80 lb ft).
        • Tighten the shock to control arm nut to 102 N·m (75 lb ft).
  5. Lower the vehicle.

Shock Absorber Replacement I-Beam

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with suitable safety stands.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  3. Object Number: 175306  Size: SH
  4. Remove the nut and the washer.
  5. Remove the shock absorber from the leaf spring spacer.
  6. Remove the nut and the washer.
  7. Remove the shock absorber from the frame.
  8. Inspect the shock absorbers for damage and leakage.
  9. Test the shock absorbers. Refer to Struts or Shock Absorbers Bench Test in Suspension General Diagnosis.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 175306  Size: SH
  1. Install the shock absorber to the frame. Insert the upper stud into the hole in the frame.
  2. Install the washer and the nut. Do not tighten.
  3. Install the shock absorber to the leaf spring spacer. Position the lower shock mount onto the stud.
  4. 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.

  5. Install the washer and the nut.
  6. Tighten

        • Tighten the shock absorber upper nut to 108 N·m (80 lb ft).
        • Tighten the shock absorber lower nut to 45 N·m (33 lb ft).
  7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  8. Lower the vehicle.