Rear Leaf Spring Replacement

Leaf Spring Replacement

- Tools Required
- J 41602 Body Protection Hoist Adapter Set

Removal Procedure





1. Install the J 41602 to the hoist and raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Support the rear axle.
3. Remove the lower shock absorber mounting bolt.





4. Remove the leaf spring U-bolt and the lower plate retaining nuts.
5. Remove the leaf spring U-bolt.
6. Remove the lower plate.





7. Remove the anchor plate.

Notice: Do not let the axle hang by the brake hose. Damage to the hose may occur. Always support the axle and the body separately.

8. Lower the rear axle away from the leaf spring.





9. Remove the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut and the bolt.





10. Remove the leaf spring to hanger mounting nut and the bolt.
11. Remove the leaf spring from the hanger.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the leaf spring to the vehicle.
2. Install the leaf spring to hanger mounting bolt and the nut.





Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

3. Install the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting bolt and the nut.
- Tighten the leaf spring to hanger mounting nut to 100 Nm (74 ft. lbs.).
- Tighten the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut to 100 Nm (74 ft. lbs.).
4. Raise the rear axle so that the rear axle is touching the leaf spring.





5. Install the anchor plate to the top of the leaf spring.
6. Apply the rubber lubricant, GM P/N 12345884 or equivalent, to the insulator on the leaf spring in order to aid in installation of the anchor plate to the leaf spring.





7. Install the lower plate and the U-bolt around the axle and through the anchor plate.
8. Install the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts.

Important: After tightening the fasteners to the specified torque, ensure that there is no gap between the anchor plate, the axle tube bracket, and the lower plate. The contact should be metal to metal.

9. Starting with the inner (lower plate side) nuts, gradually tighten the mounting nuts so that the anchor plate moves uniformly, side to side, over the leaf spring.
- Tighten the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts to 100 Nm (74 ft. lbs.).





10. Install the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt.
- Tighten the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt to 107 Nm (79 ft. lbs.).
11. Lower the vehicle.
12. Remove the J41602, if necessary.
13. Adjust the trim height of the vehicle.