Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003 GMC Envoy, and 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Front frame service section installation requires replacement of the sway-bar mounting brackets.

The re-designed frame assembly for the new S/T Utility is a mild, steel hydroformed frame assembly. A front frame service section consisting of the left and right frame ends, body, and radiator support mounting brackets and front connecting cross tube is available. If damage permits, locate and cut off the front 420 mm (16 1/2 in) portion of the frame assembly first along the die mark indicators and through the sway bar mounting brackets. The front and rear body mounts, radiator support mounts, sway-bar brackets, steering gear and transmission cross-member can be ordered and replaced separately.

Fig 1: Identifying Front Full Frame Sectioning

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove all of the related panels and components including the front bumper assembly and the sway bar brackets.

Fig 2: Removing All Of Related Panels And Components
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Locate the two die-marks on each frame. The die marks are located 420 mm (16 1/2 in) rearward from each front frame rail end on the top and bottom side of each rail.

Fig 3: Locating Two Die-Marks On Each Frame
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Line up the masking tape with the point of each die mark arrow.

Fig 4: Applying Masking Tape With Point Of Each Die Mark Arrow
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Apply masking tape over the die-marks and down each frame rail side as shown, for the cut location.

Fig 5: Cutting Each Frame At Rear Edge Of Tape Line
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The tape edge facing the rear of the vehicle is the proper cut location. The cut location is not to exceed 420 mm (16 1/2 in) of the front frame section.
Cut each frame at the rear edge of the tape line and through the sway bar bracket using a reciprocating saw or equivalent, as shown.
Cut the sway bar bracket in half.

Fig 6: Cutting Sway Bar Bracket In Half
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the damaged frame section.

Fig 7: Removing Damaged Frame Section
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Do not damage the sway bar bracket attaching the surfaces.
Remove and discard the remaining sway bar bracket attached to the undamaged portion of the frame using a cut-off wheel or equivalent.

Fig 8: Removing Remaining Sway Bar Bracket
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.