Rear Suspension Auxiliary Spring - Thud/Clunk

9224buick04

Bulletin:
91-3D-1

Date:
August 91

Ref. No.:
91-245-3

Corp. Ref. No.:
133403


SUBJECT:
REAR SUSPENSION AUXILIARY SPRING THUD/CLUNK
(LOWER ATTACHING BRACKET POSITIONING)

MODELS AFFECTED:
1989-91 REGALS


CONDITION:

Some 1989-91 Regals equipped with auxiliary rear springs may exhibit a thud/clunk type noise coming from the rear of the vehicle that is audible in the passenger compartment. This condition is most apparent after a harsh/sharp road input such as a chuck-hole/speed bump.

CAUSE:

Auxiliary rear spring lower attaching bracket not in full contact with rear spindle rod. Under certain operating conditions lower attaching bracket may flex and contact spindle rod resulting in thud/clunk noise.

CORRECTION:

Following service procedure indicated below, insure that the auxiliary rear spring lower brackets are properly seated on spindle rods.

SERVICE PROCEDURE:

1. Raise vehicle and support in such a manner that rear suspension is extended in a full downward position.

2. Inspect both right and left hand auxiliary spring lower brackets to insure they are in contact with spindle rods utilizing a .002" feeler gage.

3. If a bracket is not in contact, loosen lower bracket to spindle rod bolt a maximum of two revolutions. Let bracket position itself on spindle rod and re-torque bolt(s) to 46 N-m (36 lbs.ft.).

CAUTION:
THE AUXILIARY SPRINGS ARE UNDER COMPRESSION AND BOLTS MUST NOT BE REMOVED. DOING SO MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.


4. Lower vehicle.

WARRANTY INFORMATION:

Labor Operation Number: T1752
Labor Time: 0.3 Hours