Measuring the D Dimension (Rear Suspension)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Use your hands in order to lift the rear bumper of the vehicle up approximately 38 mm (1.5 in). Gently remove your hands in order to allow the vehicle to lower.
Use your hands in order to push the rear bumper of the vehicle down approximately 38 mm (1.5 in). Remove your hands in order to allow the vehicle to rise.
Measure the D dimension for the left and right side of the vehicle. See Figure and Fig 1 .

Fig 1: Measuring 'D' Dimension
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- The D dimension for front wheel drive vehicles is the vertical distance measured between the frame rail and the rear axle.
- The D dimension for all wheel drive vehicles is the vertical distance measured between the horizontal centerline of the lower control arm bolt (1) and the bottom of the ball joint (2). See Fig 1.
Replace the rear springs to correct low rear trim height as necessary.