OEM 2005 Cadillac XLR Leaf Spring

2005 Cadillac XLR Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the front transverse leaf spring on 2005 Cadillac XLR?

  A: Begin by using vehicle support systems to lift your car followed by tire and wheel removal. Measure the front spring adjuster bolt gap to use during installation when setting the vehicle trim height if you are replacing the transverse spring. Apply the transverse spring compressor (J 33432-A) onto the transverse spring before compressing it. The procedure begins by taking the lower shock absorber mounting bolts off the Control Arm before disconnecting the stabilizer shaft link from this arm. Insert the ball joint separator (J 42188) between the lower ball joint and Steering Knuckle after partially loosening but not removing the lower ball joint stud nut attached to the lower Control Arm. Then take out both the separator and the nut. After removing the lower ball joint stud nut disconnect both lower control arms using jackstands while also marking the cam bolt positions for reference. Start by removing the lower Control Arm and its cam bolts then move on to remove the transverse spring bolts and keep those old bolts for disposal. Separate the transverse spring from the vehicle along with the compressor unit unless you plan to replace the spring. During new transverse spring installation use transverse spring compressor (J 33432-A) to place it onto the crossmember before removing the compressor after shock absorber installation to prevent damage. Install new transverse spring retainers and bolts on the crossmember while applying torque to 62 nm (46 ft. Lbs.). You should attach the lower Control Arm to the front crossmember before placing the cam bolts into their designated spots but do not apply the final torque value. Screw the ball joint stud of the lower Control Arm to the Steering Knuckle with a brand new ball joint stud nut then torque it to 20 nm. Follow by turning the nut by 210 degrees then verify the minimum tightness at 55 nm (15 ft. Lbs and 41 ft. Lbs). The ball joint stud must first be tightened to 55 nm (41 ft. Lbs.) before an additional 210 degrees of rotation and a final torque check. After securing the lower Control Arm with a jackstand install the shock absorber lower mounting bolts at 28 nm (21 ft. Lbs.). After fitting the stabilizer shaft link onto the lower Control Arm apply a torque of 72 nm (53 ft. Lbs.) on the link nut. Complete the procedure by removing the transverse spring compressor (J 33432-A) from the transverse spring then discard jackstands and reinstall tire and wheel assemblies before adjusting front trim height and performing front wheel alignment.