GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

J 33432-A Transverse Spring Compressor

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  3. Note: During this procedure, use care not to scratch the transverse spring.

  4. Using the J 33432-A , compress the transverse spring.
  5. Remove one of the lower control arms. Refer to Rear Axle Lower Control Arm Replacement.

  6. Object Number: 423106  Size: SH
  7. Remove the transverse spring mounting bolts and retainers.
  8. Discard the old transverse spring mounting bolts
  9. Remove the transverse spring from the vehicle.
  10. Remove the J 33432-A from the transverse spring, if the spring is to be replaced.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 65337  Size: SH
  1. If installing a new transverse spring, install the J 33432-A and compress the spring.
  2. Install the transverse spring to the crossmember.
  3. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 423106  Size: SH

    Caution: Do not remove the transverse leaf spring compressor tool until after the shock absorber has been installed. The pad on the transverse leaf spring bolt could move out of position resulting in damage to the pad or a rattle in the suspension.

    Note: Use NEW transverse spring retainer-to-crossmember bolts.

  4. Install the transverse spring retainers and NEW mounting bolts to the crossmember and tighten to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  5. Object Number: 65339  Size: SH
  6. Install the lower control arm to the rear crossmember. Refer to Rear Axle Lower Control Arm Replacement.

  7. Object Number: 65337  Size: SH
  8. Remove the J 33432-A .
  9. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  10. If a NEW transverse spring was installed, adjust the rear trim height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection.
  11. Perform a rear wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement.