GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 36202 Torsion Bar Unloading/Loading Tool

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 360742  Size: SH

    Notice: Use care when handling the torsion bars in order to avoid chipping or scratching the coating. Damage to the coating will result in premature failure of the torsion bars.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Install the J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the support.
  3. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm until the load is removed from the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.

  4. Object Number: 830470  Size: SH

    Important: Mark the adjustment bolt and count the number of times that is required to remove the adjustment bolt.

  5. Remove the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.
  6. Remove the J 36202 , allowing the torsion bar to unload.
  7. Remove the adjustment arm by sliding the torsion bar forward until the torsion bar clears the adjustment arm. Use your hand to support the adjustment arm as the adjustment arm releases from the torsion bar.

  8. Object Number: 830466  Size: SH
  9. Remove the torsion bar support bolts.
  10. Remove the torsion bar support.
  11. Important: Note the position of the torsion bars as the left and right bars are different.


    Object Number: 830465  Size: SH
  12. Remove the torsion bars from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 830465  Size: SH
  1. Install the torsion bars to the lower control arm.

  2. Object Number: 830466  Size: SH
  3. Install the torsion bar support.
  4. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  5. Install the torsion bar support bolts.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 95 N·m (70 lb ft).


    Object Number: 360742  Size: SH
  7. While supporting the adjustment arm, slide the torsion bar rearward until the torsion bar fully engages the adjustment arm.
  8. Install the J 36202 to the adjustment arm and the support.
  9. Increase the tension on the adjustment arm in order to load the torsion bar.

  10. Object Number: 830470  Size: SH

    Important: Install the adjustment bolt the same amount of turns that were required to remove the bolt during removal.

  11. Install the adjustment bolt and the adjuster nut.
  12. Remove the J 36202 releasing the tension on the torsion bar until the load is taken up by the adjustment bolt.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. Measure the Z height. Refer to Trim Height Inspection .

  15. Object Number: 830469  Size: SH
  16. Turn the adjustment bolt clockwise to increase the Z height and counterclockwise to decrease the Z height.