GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 222971  Size: SH
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the drivers side rear tire.
  3. Support the rear axle with jack stands.

  4. Object Number: 222972  Size: SH
  5. Remove the passenger side rear stabilizer bar end link.

  6. Object Number: 222973  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the passenger side rear shock from the rear axle.
  8. Remove the rear track bar. Refer to Rear Axle Tie Rod Replacement in Rear Suspension.

  9. Object Number: 222974  Size: SH
  10. Remove the torque arm bolts at the rear axle.
  11. Lower the rear axle slightly.

  12. Object Number: 222975  Size: SH
  13. Remove the passenger side rear coil spring and bushing.

  14. Object Number: 222968  Size: SH
  15. Loosen the exhaust muffler clamp attaching the exhaust muffler to the right catalytic converter.
  16. Reposition the exhaust muffler clamp.
  17. Lower the axle completely.
  18. Remove the muffler by rotating the assembly while sliding the muffler out from the rear of the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 222968  Size: SH
  1. Install the exhaust muffler to the vehicle.
  2. Raise the axle slightly.
  3. Position the exhaust muffler clamp.
  4. 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.

  5. Tighten the exhaust muffler clamp attaching the muffler to the right catalytic converter.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the exhaust muffler clamp bolt to 68 N·m (50 lb ft).


    Object Number: 222975  Size: SH
  7. Install the passenger side rear coil spring and bushing.

  8. Object Number: 222974  Size: SH
  9. Raise the axle completely.
  10. Install the torque arm bolts at the rear axle.
  11. Tighten

        • Tighten the torque arm bolts to 130 N·m (96 lb ft).
        • Tighten to torque arm nuts to 132 N·m (97 lb ft).
  12. Install the rear track bar. Refer to Rear Axle Tie Rod Replacement in Rear Suspension.

  13. Object Number: 222973  Size: SH
  14. Connect the passenger side rear shock to the rear axle.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the rear shock nuts to 90 N·m (66 lb ft).


    Object Number: 222972  Size: SH
  16. Connect the passenger side rear stabilizer bar end link.
  17. Tighten
    Tighten the end link nut to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).

  18. Remove the rear axle support.

  19. Object Number: 222971  Size: SH
  20. Install the drivers side rear tire
  21. Tighten
    Tighten the wheel nuts to 120 N·m (89 lb ft).