GM 22698016 Rear Spring Kit

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You should remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly and use a spring compressor to relieve pressure from the upper spring seat.

Remove the shock absorber-to-trailing arm mounting bolt and washer.

For this procedure, a spring compressor is necessary and can typically be rented from auto parts stores or equipment yards. If the struts or coil springs show signs of wear, such as leaking fluid, loss of damping ability, or damaged coil springs, it's essential to explore repair options before starting work. Strut and coil spring assemblies are non-serviceable and must be replaced if issues arise. Complete strut assemblies, including springs, might be available for exchange, which can save time and effort. Prior to disassembly, it's crucial to check the cost and parts availability. To begin disassembly, remove the strut and spring assembly and securely mount the strut clevis bracket in a vise, taking care not to damage any other parts and using wood or rags to protect the unit. Follow the spring compressor's manufacturer instructions to install it on the spring, compressing it until all pressure is relieved from the upper spring seat. Hold the damper shaft with a socket and remove the damper shaft nut, along with the upper mount. Lay out the removed parts in the correct order and inspect the rubber portion of the upper mount for cracks or deterioration, replacing if necessary. Remove the upper spring seal, checking the rubber portion for damage and the bearing for smooth operation, replacing them as needed. Slide the rubber bump stop off the damper shaft and inspect it for deterioration, replacing if necessary. Carefully lift the compressed spring from the assembly and set it aside, making sure to mark the springs as LEFT and RIGHT if disassembling both struts. For reassembly, extend the damper rod, install the rubber bump stop, and place the compressed coil spring onto the lower seat of the damper, ensuring the end rests against the raised stop. Install the upper insulator, spring seat, upper mount, and mounting nut, then tighten it to the specified torque. Finally, remove the spring compressor tool and reinstall the strut/spring assembly.

If you are replacing the spring, you should carefully release it from the compressor.

Inspect the rubber portion of the upper mount, the upper spring seal, the rubber bump stop, and the bearing for damage or deterioration.

Loosen the rear wheel lug nuts. Chock the front wheels to keep the vehicle from rolling, then raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the rear wheels. Remove the rear inner fender splash shield. Remove the shock absorber-to-trailing arm mounting bolt and washer. Support the shock, remove the shock carrier-to-body lower mounting bolts, then loosen the shock carrier-to-body upper mounting bolts and remove the shock. Remove the shock carrier's lower mounting bolts, then loosen the upper mounting bolts and remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten the bolts to the specific torque.