Installation Procedure

2008 Pontiac Grand Prix BaseSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Hummer H2. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the rear axle assembly to the vehicle.
  2. Install the coil springs, if equipped. Refer to Coil Spring Replacement .

    If equipped with air suspension, ensure that the air springs are seated properly on the rear axle.

  3. NOTE: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
  4. Position the bottoms of the rear shocks in the rear axle shock brackets and install the lower shock bolts and nuts.

    Tighten:  Tighten the nuts to 105 N.m (77 lb ft).

  5. Connect the upper control arms to the rear axle. Refer to Rear Axle Upper Control Arm Replacement .
  6. Connect the lower control arms to the rear axle. Refer to Rear Axle Lower Control Arm Replacement .
  7. Fig 1: Track Bar & Rear Axle
    GM913437Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Position the track bar in the bracket and install the bolt and nut.

    Tighten:  Tighten the nut to 105 N.m (77 lb ft).

  9. Fig 2: Rear Stabilizer Shaft Insulator Bracket Bolts
    GM913402Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  10. Pivot the stabilizer shaft (1) forward and position the insulator brackets to the rear axle.
  11. Install the stabilizer shaft insulator bracket bolts (2).

    Tighten:  Tighten the bolts to 33 N.m (24 lb ft).

  12. Fig 3: View Of Brake Caliper & Brake Caliper Bracket
    GM924321Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  13. Install the caliper and bracket assemblies to the rear axle.

    Tighten:  Tighten the brake caliper bracket bolts to 165 N.m (122 lb ft).

  14. Fig 4: Brake Crossover Pipe, Wheel Speed Sensor Harness & Electronic Locker Harness
    GM913408Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  15. Install the electronic locker harness, wheel speed sensor harness, and the brake crossover pipe to the rear axle.

    Tighten:  Tighten the brake crossover pipe bracket bolt to 22 N.m (16 lb ft).

  16. Fig 5: Track Bar & Clips
    GM793129Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  17. Install the right-rear park brake cable (2) to the cable guide, the park brake actuator, and the backing plate.
  18. Install the park brake cable clips (1) to the track bar.
  19. Fig 6: Cable, Lever & Backing Plate
    GM793127Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  20. Connect the left-rear park brake cable (3) to the cable guide, the park brake actuator (2), and the backing plate (1).
  21. Install the rear propeller shaft. Refer to Rear Propeller Shaft Replacement .
  22. Fig 7: Rear Axle Vent Hose & Vent Tube
    GM796012Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  23. Connect the rear axle vent tube (1).
  24. Install the rear tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  25. Inspect and add axle lubricant, if necessary. Refer to Lubricant Level Inspection - Rear Drive Axle .
  26. Remove the jack stands.
  27. Lower the vehicle. If equipped with air suspension, ensure the air springs seat properly as the vehicle is being lowered.
  28. Enable the park brake cable automatic adjuster. Refer to Parking Brake Cable Adjuster Enabling .
  29. If equipped with air suspension, start the vehicle and run for approximately 2 minutes to ensure the air spring leveling system is functioning properly.
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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.