GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 33432-A Transverse Spring Compressor
    • J 43822 Shock Support Tool

    Object Number: 581266  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Disconnect the real time damping electrical connector from the shock, if equipped.
  4. Remove the upper mounting nut, insulator retainer, and insulator.

  5. Object Number: 65335  Size: SH
  6. Remove the shock absorber lower mounting bolts and nuts.
  7. Remove the shock absorber from the upper shock tower and the vehicle.
  8. Remove the insulator and retainer from shock absorber.
  9. For vehicles equipped with heavy duty shocks (FE3) perform the following steps.
  10.         Notice: During this procedure, use care not to scratch the transverse spring.

    8.1. Perform steps 1 thru 4.
    8.2. Using a pry bar compress the shock absorber from the bottom upward.
    8.3. Install the J 43822 to the shock absorber while the shock is compressed.
    8.4. Remove the shock absorber from the shock tower and the vehicle.
    8.5. Remove J 43822 from the shock absorber.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 65335  Size: SH
  1. Install the retainer and insulator to the shock absorber.
  2. Install the shock absorber to the upper shock tower.
  3. 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 upper insulator, retainer, and nut.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber upper mounting nut to 26 N·m (19 lb ft).

  6. Install the shock absorber lower mounting bolts and nuts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber lower mounting nuts to 28 N·m (21 lb ft).


    Object Number: 581266  Size: SH
  8. Connect the real time damping electrical connector to the shock, if equipped.
  9. Remove J 33432-A from the spring.
  10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. For vehicles equipped with heavy duty shocks (FE3) perform the following steps.
  13. 9.1. Install the J 43822 to the shock absorber.
    9.2. Install the shock absorber into the vehicle.
    9.3. Install the upper insulator, retainer, and nut.

    Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber upper mounting nut to 26 N·m (19 lb ft).

    9.4. Remove J 43822 from the shock absorber.
    9.5. Install J 33432-A to the spring and compress.
    9.6. Raise the lower control arm and install the shock absorber lower mounting bolts and nuts.

    Tighten
    Tighten the shock absorber lower mounting nuts to 28 N·m (21 lb ft).

    9.7. Remove J 33432-A from the spring.
    9.8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
    9.9. Lower the vehicle.