GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Shock Absorber Replacement W/F55

Tools Required

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

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 906230  Size: SH
  1. Disconnect the front shock ESC harness connector.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  3. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

  4. Object Number: 906229  Size: SH

    Important: The ESC connector seals to the upper shock shaft. If the upper shock shaft is damaged, the shock will need replacement.

  5. Using only hand tools, remove the upper mounting nut, insulator retainer and insulator.
  6. Remove the shock absorber lower mounting bolts and nuts.
  7. Using a pry bar, compress the shock absorber from the bottom upward.
  8. While the shock is in the compressed position, install the J 43822 .
  9. Remove the shock absorber from the vehicle.
  10. Remove the J 43822 from the shock absorber.
  11. Remove the insulator and insulator retainer from the shock absorber.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the J 43822 to the shock absorber.
  2. Install the insulator and insulator retainer to the shock absorber.

  3. Object Number: 906230  Size: SH
  4. Position the shock absorber between the upper shock support and lower control arm.
  5. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  6. Install the insulator, insulator retainer and nut to the upper shock shaft.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 26 N·m (19 lb ft).

  8. Remove the J 43822 from the shock absorber.
  9. Using the J 33432-A , compress the coil spring.
  10. Raise the lower control arm to the shock absorber lower mounting and install the bolts and nuts.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 28 N·m (21 lb ft).

  12. Remove the J 33432-A from the coil spring.
  13. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  14. Lower the vehicle.

  15. Object Number: 906229  Size: SH
  16. Connect the ESC harness connector. Check the connection by lightly pulling upwards on the connector.