NOISE FROM FRT. OF DASH WHILE TURNING-INSPECT STEERING GEAR

Subject: NOISE FROM FRONT OF DASH WHEN TURNING (INSPECT NUTS/REPLACE STEERING GEAR MOUNTING GROMMETS)

Models Affected: 1990-91 SUNBIRD AND GRAND AM MODELS

Condition:

------------ Customers may comment about a squawk/creak noise from the front of the dash when turning. They may also comment about a slight feeling of vague on-center steering and slow returnability.

Cause:

------------ After a extended heat soak the grommet material starts to take a compression set. This set will lead to a rub condition between the gear and the grommet during steering.

Correction:

------------ As part of trouble shooting, refer to Service Bulletin 90-3-19 for VIN Breakpoints regarding the the steering gear to front of dash clamp retaining nuts and inspect them.

If the retaining nuts are not loose, it may be necessary to replace only the steering gear mounting grommets.

If the retaining nuts are loose, it will be necessary to replace both the retaining nuts and steering gear mounting grommets.

STEERING GEAR MOUNTING REPLACEMENT GROMMETS

SUSPENSION RIGHT LEFT LEVEL PART NUMBER PART NUMBER ------------ ------------------- ------------- FE1 26001492 7849985 FE2 26001492 26000626 FE3 26001492 26000626

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

Vehicles with possible grommet noise conditions were produced between breakpoints listed below:

From the following serial number to the end of 1990 production:

'J' (Lordstown) L7597702 'N' (Lansing B) LC334258

Labor Operation Number: T1716 Labor Time: 0.9 Hour

From the start of 1991 production to the following serial number:

'J' (Lordstown) M7580039 'N' (Lansing B) MC579960

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