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Home >> GMC >> 2004 >> Sonoma >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 59 (Rear Suspension System) >> Repair Instructions >> Leaf Spring Replacement >> Installation Procedure

Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Safari and 2004 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the leaf spring to the vehicle.
  2. Install the leaf spring to hanger mounting bolt and the nut.
    Fig 1: View Of Hanger Mounting Nut & Bolt
    GM178950Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  3. Install the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting bolt and the nut.

    Tighten: 

    • Tighten the leaf spring to hanger mounting nut to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
    • Tighten the leaf spring to spring shackle mounting nut to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).

    Fig 2: Identifying Spring Shackle Mounting Bolt
    GM178951Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Raise the rear axle so that the rear axle is touching the leaf spring.
  5. Install the anchor plate to the top of the leaf spring.
    Fig 3: Locating Anchor Plate
    GM178954Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Apply the rubber lubricant, GM P/N 12345884 or equivalent, to the insulator on the leaf spring in order to aid in installation of the anchor plate to the leaf spring.
  7. Install the lower plate and the U-bolt around the axle and through the anchor plate.
    Fig 4: View Of Leaf Spring Lower Plate & U-Bolt
    GM596430Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Install the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts.
    IMPORTANT: After tightening the fasteners to the specified torque, ensure that there is no gap between the anchor plate, the axle tube bracket, and the lower plate. The contact should be metal to metal.
  9. Starting with the inner (lower plate side) nuts, gradually tighten the mounting nuts so that the anchor plate moves uniformly, side to side, over the leaf spring.

    Tighten:  Tighten the leaf spring U-bolts and lower plate mounting nuts to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).

  10. Install the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt.

    Tighten:  Tighten the lower shock absorber mounting nut and bolt to 107 N.m (79 lb ft).

    Fig 5: Identifying Shock Absorber Lower Mounting Nut & Bolt (LH)
    GM178961Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Remove the J 41602  , if necessary.
  13. Adjust the trim height of the vehicle. Refer to Trim Height Inspection Procedure in Suspension General Diagnosis.
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