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For 1990-2009 cars only

Squeak Noise From Rear of Vehicle (Lubricate Rear Leaf Springs)

Subject:Squeak Noise From Rear of Vehicle (Lubricate Rear Leaf Springs)

Models:1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado (Classic)
1999-2007 GMC Sierra (Classic)



Condition

Some customers may comment about a squeak noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. During normal operation, certain vehicles may exhibit a squeaking noise that may be traced to the rear leaf springs. While this noise is an operating characteristic of leaf springs, the frequency and severity of this noise will be affected by the roads that the vehicle is driven on.

Cause

This condition may be due to debris getting between the leaf springs.

Correction

To correct this condition, lubricate the rear leaf springs using the following procedure.

Important: It has been found that the application of grease to the rear leaf springs does a better job of preventing the noise from reoccurring than replacement of the spring.

  1. Raise the vehicle on a frame lift-type hoist.
  2. Inspect the springs for damage. If none is found, proceed to the next step.
  3. Pressure wash the rear leaf springs to remove as much dirt and grit as possible.
  4. Dry the springs with compressed air.

  5. Object Number: 1826776  Size: SF
  6. Apply a liberal amount of grease, GM P/N 12345996 (in Canada, use P/N 10953501), under the front and rear tip inserts for the #2 and #3 leaves, on top of the tip inserts, and in between the #1 and #2, and #2 and #3 leaves, as indicated below. A screwdriver can be used to gently pry up the tip insert; however, a rag around the screwdriver must be used to prevent damage to the spring. Use a flat-bladed tool, such as a gasket scraper to properly distribute the grease.
  7. Lower the vehicle to the ground and test drive to verify the repair.

Please inform the customer that this will offer relief, it is by no means a lifetime repair. Periodic cleanings and grease re-application may be necessary throughout the life of the vehicle.

For 1500 Series (½ ton) models only: On vehicles built prior to October 2004, if the above procedure does not correct this noise, it could be caused by an incorrectly dimensioned splay clip (the band holding the ends of the leafs together) that interferes with the leaf springs. A 5 mm (0.197 in) wider splay clip was introduced in early 2005 model year to provide additional clearance. To correct this concern, replace the rear leaf spring assembly. There was no change to the part number.

Part Information

Part Number

Description

Qty

12345996 - U.S.

10953501 - Canada

Lubricant

1

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

E9437*

Lubricate Rear Leaf Springs

1.0 hr

*This labor operation is for bulletin use only. It will not be published in the Labor Time Guide.