Suspension - Loose Lumber Noise from Rear of Vehicle

File In Section:3 - Steering/Suspension

Bulletin No.: 73-34-06

Date: November, 1997

Subject:
Loose Lumber Noise from Rear of Vehicle when Driving Over Small Bumps (Replace Rear Shock Absorbers)

Models:
1997-98 Chevrolet Venture
1997-98 Oldsmobile Silhouette
1997-98 Pontiac Trans Sport

Long Wheel Base Models Only with Electronic Level Control (G67) and Built Prior to the Following VIN Breakpoints:

Model VIN Breakpoints

Chevrolet WD131456
Oldsmobile WD131384
Pontiac WD131452

Important:
This condition does not apply to the Opel Sintra.

Condition
Some owners may comment on a "loose lumber" type noise coming from the rear of the vehicle and audible in the vehicle's passenger compartment. This condition is most apparent when driving over a series of small to moderate bumps (washboard gravel or roughly patched asphalt road surface), which cause high frequency, low displacement wheel motions.

Cause
The noise condition may be generated by the internal valving mechanism of the rear shock absorbers and is transmitted into the body by the upper shock absorber mount. Variation in shock absorbers can make some vehicles worse than others.

Correction
Replace both rear shock absorbers with new assemblies, P/N 22064847, following the procedure in Section 3D, Rear Suspension, of the applicable Service Manual.

Parts Information
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation Labor Time
E5847 (Both) Use published labor operation time