GM 25876861
Spring, Front

The only suspension tool allowed for component servicing on this vehicle is the ch-48845 (Spring Compressor) which precautions against accidental injury because other tools lack the required strength for springs. You must install the front shock absorber assembly inside the ch-48845 following a specific protocol that guarantees upper retaining bracket adjustment for electronic suspension control vehicles to safeguard the front suspension mount from damage. The shock absorber must be positioned within the upper retaining bracket of the ch-48845 before using the ch-48845 to compress the front spring. Use a wrench of the appropriate size to hold the shock absorber shaft before removing the old nut which needs replacement with a new one. Start by removing the front lower shock absorber and front spring lower insulator before proceeding to the front suspension strut mount and front spring upper seat then the front suspension strut bumper followed by the front spring upper insulator and finally the front suspension spring from the spring compressor. The alignment of the front suspension strut mount and front spring upper seat alongside the front suspension strut bumper and front spring upper insulator and front suspension spring should occur within the spring compressor while the inboard strut mounting studs remain closer to each other than the outboard stud points toward external directions for precise alignment. Set the spring seat stop next to the outboard stud with the center of the lower strut mount aligned to the notch which is located to the right of the outboard stud. Push the shock absorber into the upper retaining bracket of ch-48845 until center position before using the wrench to compress the front spring while maintaining grip on the shock absorber shaft. Normal installation requires tightening the new shock absorber nut to specified torque values for electronic suspension vehicles at 80 nm (59 lb ft) then electrical connector to 20 nm (15 lb ft) and 60 nm (44 lb ft) for vehicles without electronic suspension. Place the shock absorber assembly into the vehicle after removing it from the spring compressor.

Disconnect the ESC sensor.

Lower the rear axle until the springs are fully unloaded, noting the orientation of the spring as they are directional.