Suspension - Front Shock Over-Extension, Choppy Ride
90chevy16Number: 89-308-3C
Section: 3C
Date: May 1990
Corp. Bulletin No.: 063301
Subject: CHOPPY RIDE DUE TO OVER-EXTENSION OF FRONT SHOCKS
Model and Year: 1988-89 K TRUCKS WITH RPO F6
A 1990 model torsion bar adjusting arm (Part # 15603963) is now available through GMSPO for 1988 and 1989 model trucks equipped with F-60 option that continue to damage front shocks, even after adjusting the torsion bar for the lowest front ride height. This new torsion bar adjusting arm will provide a lower front ride height, thus preventing over extension and damage to shocks. These adjusters will not change Gross Front Axle Weight Rating (GFAWR).
SERVICE PROCEDURE:
Figure 1:
Figure 2:
REMOVAL PROCEDURE FOR TORSION BAR ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLIES ON BOTH TORSION BARS (SEE FIGURES 1 AND 2).
Tool Required: J36202 - Torsion Bar Unloading Tool
1. Raise vehicle front and support with suitable safety stands.
2. Increase the tension on adjustment arm (186) using J36202.
3. Remove adjustment bolt (184) and retaining plate (185).
4. Release tension on adjustment arm and move tool aside.
5. Slide torsion bars forward.
6. Remove the adjustment arms (186).
REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE FOR NEW TORSION BAR ADJUSTMENT ASSEMBLIES ON BOTH TORSION BARS (SEE FIGURES 1 AND 2).
Tool Required: J36202 - Torsion Bar Unloading Tool
1. Fit the new torsion bar adjusting arms (Part # 15603963) on torsion bars.
2. Increase the tension on the torsion bar, using J36202.
3. Install the retaining plate and the adjustment bolt.
4. Release the tension on the torsion bar until the load is taken up by the adjustment bolt.
5. Remove J36202.
6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Reset "Z" height and front end alignment to the specification listed at the end of this bulletin.
SERVICE PARTS INFORMATION:
Part Number Descrion Quantity
15603963 Torsion bar adjuster 2
SERVICE SPECIFICATIONS
After installing these adjusters the Z height setting and alignment specifications should be reset to the revised 1990 specifications list below:
TRIM HEIGHTS (Z Heights)
ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS (K 1, 2, 3)
WARRANTY INFORMATION:
For repairs under warranty use:
Labor Operation: T8130 Replace both torsion bar adjuster arms, set "Z" height, and check for wheel alignment.
Labor Time: .9
Add: To Align Front Wheels
- K Trucks without cam kits 1.3 hrs. previously installed.
- K Trucks with can kits 0.6 hrs previously installed.
NOTE: Labor operation is coded to base vehicle coverage in the warranty system.
DOCUMENT SHOWN BELOW SHOULD BE PRODUCED LOCALLY AND PROVIDED TO THE OWNERS OF VEHICLES MODIFIED BY THIS REPAIR PROCEDURE.