Installation Procedure

2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sonoma, 2003 GMC Jimmy, 2003 Chevrolet S10 Pickup, and 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the upper control arm bumper to the upper control arm.
    NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
  2. Install the upper control arm bumper retaining nut.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the upper control arm bumper retaining nut to 27 N.m (20 lb ft).

    Fig 1: Upper Control Arm Bumper
    G01467683Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. Install the upper control arm to the frame.
  4. Install the upper control arm inner cams to the upper control arm retaining bolts.

    Important:  The bolt heads must be opposed inside the bracket.

  5. Install the upper control arm retaining bolts to the upper control arm.
  6. Install the upper control arm outer cams.

    Important:  Tighten the nuts with the front suspension loaded.

  7. Install the upper control arm retaining nuts.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the upper control arm retaining nuts to 115 N.m (85 lb ft).

    Fig 2: Installing Upper Control Arm To Frame
    G01467684Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Install the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle.
  9. Install the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle retaining nut.

    Tighten 

    1. 9.1 Tighten the upper ball joint retaining nut to 83 N.m (61 lb ft).
    2. 9.2 Tighten the upper ball joint retaining nut in order to align the cotter pin. Do not tighten the upper ball joint nut more than 1/6 turn.
  10. Install a new cotter pin to the upper ball joint retaining nut. Bend the pin ends against the nut.
  11. Install the shock absorber. Refer to SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT (RWD)  or SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT (4WD) .
  12. Load the torsion bar. Refer to TORSION BAR AND SUPPORT ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT .
  13. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
  14. Lower the vehicle.
  15. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to MEASURING WHEEL ALIGNMENT in Wheel Alignment.
    Fig 3: Installing Upper Ball Joint To Steering Knuckle
    G01467685Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.