Lumina APV V6-191 3.1L (1990)
Axle Beam: Service and Repair
Rear Axle Beam
Fig. 1 Rear Axle Assembly
Fig. 2 Control Arm Bracket Removal & Installation
When removing rear springs do not use a twin-post type hoist. The swing arc tendency of the rear axle assembly when certain fasteners are
removed may cause it to slip from the hoist. Perform operation on floor if necessary.
1.
Raise vehicle and place jack stands under frame side rails in front of rear wheelwells. Position a suitable jack stand under rear axle assembly.
2.
Remove both rear wheel assemblies and brake drums. Do not hammer on brake drums as damage to the bearing could result.
3.
Disconnect parking brake cable from hook connection, then remove brake line brackets from frame.
4.
Remove lower shock attaching bolts and nuts at axle and disconnect shocks from axle assembly, Fig. 1.
5.
Remove track bar attaching nut and bolt from axle and disconnect track bar.
6.
Lower rear axle. Do not suspend rear axle by brake hoses.
7.
Remove coil spring and insulators, then disconnect brake lines from control arm attachments.
8.
Disconnect parking brake cable from rear axle attachments.
9.
Remove hub attaching bolts, then remove hub and bearing assembly and position backing plate out of way.
10.
Remove eight control arm bracket to underbody attaching bolts and lower axle away from vehicle, Fig. 2. An assistant may be needed to help
steady axle when lowering.
11.
Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a.
Apply Loctite to threads of control arm bracket to underbody attaching bolts.
b.
Bleed brake system and refill reservoir.
c.
When reassembling rear axle components, ensure that bolts attaching axle to supports are inserted from inboard to outboard side of
chassis and position coil springs as described in Fig. 1.
d.
Torque all attaching bolt and nuts to specifications.
