INNER TIE ROD BUSHING CREAK (REPL. TIE RODS WITH NEW P/N)

Subject: INNER TIE ROD BUSHING CREAK (REPLACE TIE RODS WITH NEW ONES)

Models Affected: 1990-91 SUNBIRD AND GRAND AM MODELS

Condition: Low ambient temperatures and moderate suspension travels may result in a creaking noise from the inner tie rod bushings. This noise is very similar and should not be confused with "stabilizer shaft bushing squawk." The "creak" occurs primarily at temperatures below 30 F and usually stops as the inner tie rods warm from engine heat. Lubing the inner tie rod assemblies with silicone grease may reduce the creak f or a short time, but the noise will return.

Cause: The creak is caused by the tie rod bushing slipping inside of the tie rod end and is due to a change in bushing material that was found to be more sensitive to suspension travels during cold temperatures.

Correction: Replace the tie rods with ones containing an improved bushing material using the procedure described in the appropriate Service Manual. For effective repair use all parts in kit, regardless of original condition.

Part Number Description ------------ -------------------------- 26032209 Left Side inner tie-rod assembly kit 26032210 Right Side inner tie-rod assembly kit

Parts are expected to be available on September 30, 1991. In case of limited inventory, parts will be placed on 400 Control to waive VIP surcharges. only verifiable emergency VIP orders will be accepted. SPO will make every effort to obtain parts. However, the part will be shipped premium transportation at dealer's expense and all other order types will be placed on backorder until the 400 control is removed.

VIN Breakpoints:

1991 Pontiac vehicles built after the VIN breakpoints listed below contain the new inner tie rod bushing material.

Sunbird Lordstown M7626044 Grand Am Lansing MC674996

Labor Operation Number: Right E8040 Left E8041 Both E8047

Labor Time: Use Current Labor Time Guide Trouble Code: 92

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.