GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 23028-A Coil Spring Remover and Installer

  1. Remove the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement .

  2. Object Number: 1850  Size: SH
  3. Remove the stabilizer shaft from the lower control arm.

  4. Object Number: 130891  Size: SH
  5. Cradle the inner control arm bushings using J 23028-A .
  6. Raise the jack in order to relieve tension on the lower control arm pivot bolts.

  7. Object Number: 179450  Size: SH

    Important: The chain is not to take place for safety, but to retain the coil spring to the upper control arm.

  8. Secure the spring with a chain around one of the top spring coils to the upper control arm.

  9. Object Number: 1851  Size: SH
  10. Turn the steering wheel to one side in order to allow the steering linkage to clear the lower control arm front pivot bolt.
  11. Remove the lower control arm pivot bolts and nuts.
  12. 7.1. Take the lower control arm rear pivot bolt out.
    7.2. Take the lower control arm front pivot bolt out.
  13. Lower the control arm by lowering the jack.
  14. When compression is removed from the coil spring, take the chain away.

  15. Object Number: 1852  Size: SH
  16. Remove the coil spring and the insulators. While removing the coil spring, do not apply force to the lower control arm and ball joint.
  17. Position the coil spring properly for easy removal.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 23028-A Coil Spring Remover and Installer


    Object Number: 403955  Size: SH
  1. Install the coil spring and the insulators on the lower control arm.
  2. Ensure that coil spring covers all or part of one inspection drain hole. The other hole must be partly or completely uncovered. Rotate coil spring as necessary.


    Object Number: 130891  Size: SH
  3. Support the control arm using J 23028-A .
  4. Position the coil spring and insulator in the upper spring seat on the frame.
  5. Raise the lower control arm using J 23028-A .
  6. Install the lower control arm to the frame.

  7. Object Number: 1855  Size: SH
  8. In order to maintain adequate steering linkage clearance, install the bolts in the direction shown.
  9. Install the lower control arm front pivot bolt and the new nut.
  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 control arm rear pivot bolt and the new nut.
  12. Tighten

    1. Tighten the lower control arm pivot bolts nuts with the front suspension loaded.
    2. Tighten the lower control arm front bolt to 115 N·m (85 lb ft).
    3. Tighten the lower control arm rear bolt to 98 N·m (72 lb ft).

    Object Number: 1850  Size: SH
  13. Install the stabilizer shaft to the lower control arm.
  14. Install the shock absorber. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement .
  15. Remove J 23028-A .
  16. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications in Wheel Alignment.