GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 36202 Torsion Bar Loading/Unloading Tool

  1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands.
  2. Remove the transmission shield.

  3. Object Number: 197534  Size: SH
  4. Unload both torsion bars using the J 36202 . To aid in assembly, record the number of turns the tool makes when removing the adjusting bolt. Remove the J 36202 .

  5. Object Number: 223401  Size: SH
  6. Remove the lower link mount nut from one side.
  7. Remove the torsion bars. Note the exact direction of the forward end and the side of the torsion bar that is being removed.
  8. Remove the lower link mount nut from the opposite side.
  9. Remove the lower link mount.

  10. Object Number: 1995  Size: SH
  11. Remove the upper link mount nut.
  12. Remove the upper link mount.
  13. Remove the torsion bar support from the frame.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 36202 Torsion Bar Loading/Unloading Tool


    Object Number: 1997  Size: SH
  1. Install the torsion bars in relation to where the bars were removed.

  2. Object Number: 1998  Size: SH
  3. Install the torsion bar support.

  4. Object Number: 1999  Size: SH
  5. Install the upper link mount.
  6. 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.

  7. Install the upper link mount nut.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 65 N·m (48 lb ft).


    Object Number: 223401  Size: SH
  9. Install the lower link mount bushing. Place a jackstand under the torsion bar support member.
  10. 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.

  11. Install the lower link mount nut.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 68 N·m (50 lb ft).


    Object Number: 197534  Size: SH
  13. Adjust the torsion bar using the J 36202 .

  14. Object Number: 2002  Size: SH
  15. Tighten the tool against the adjusting arm for the recorded number of turns. This loads the torsion bars.
  16. Install the transmission shield.
  17. Lower the vehicle.
  18. Check final Z trim height. Refer to Trim Height in Suspension General Diagnosis.