Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Aztek and 2004 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: View Of Rear Axle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the brake pipes to the rear axle. Refer to Brake Pipe Replacement in Hydraulic Brakes.
Position the rear axle under the vehicle.
Install the control arms to the vehicle.
Install the control arm bolts.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

IMPORTANT: This is a prevailing torque type fastener. This fastener may be reused ONLY if:

The fastener and its counterpart are clean and free from rust.
The fastener develops 4 N.m (37 lb in) of torque (drag) against its counterpart prior to the fastener seating.

If the fastener does not meet these criteria, REPLACE the fastener.

Install the control arm nuts.
Tighten: Tighten the control arm nuts to 220 N.m (162 lb ft).
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
Use the utility stand in order to raise the rear axle.
Install the rear axle coil springs, the spring seats and the spring insulators. Refer to Coil Spring Replacement (Front Wheel Drive with Axle) or Coil Spring Replacement (Front Wheel Drive without Axle) or Coil Spring Replacement (All Wheel Drive) .
Install the backing plate or the park brake support.
- For front wheel drive vehicles, refer to Drum Brake Backing Plate Replacement in Drum Brakes.
- For all wheel drive vehicles, refer to Park Brake Shoe Replacement (Rear Disc) in Park Brake.
Install the park brake cables to the rear axle. Refer to Park Brake Cable Replacement - Left Rear (Disc) or Park Brake Cable Replacement - Left Rear (Drum) and Park Brake Cable Replacement - Right Rear (Disc) or Park Brake Cable Replacement - Right Rear (Drum) in Park Brake.
Install the intermediate brake hoses to the rear axle brake pipes. Refer to Brake Hose Replacement - Rear (Disc Brake) or Brake Hose Replacement - Rear (Drum Brake) in Hydraulic Brakes.
Bleed the brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Manual) or Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding (Pressure) in Hydraulic Brakes.
Install the rear tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
Lower the vehicle.