transmission PONTIAC FIERO 1988 Service Repair Manual

1988
SER
This manual applies to the 1988 Pontiac Firebird Models.
It contains the latest product information available at the
time of publication approval. lnformation pertaining to
the operation of the vehicle is contained in the Owner's
Manual which accompanies each vehicle. The right is
reserved to make changes at any time without notice.
Any references to brand names in this manual is intended
merely as an example of the types of
lubricant% tools,
materials, etc, recommended for use in servicing 1988
Pontiac Models. In all cases, an equivalent may be used.
PONTIAC DIVISION
GENERAL
MOTORS CORPORATION
PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48053
1987 General Motors Corp. All Rights Reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any
retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means,
including but not limited to electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written
permission of General Motors Corp. This includes all text,
illustrations, tables and charts.
S-881 OF 9-87 Printed in Canada
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION NAME
GENERAL INFORMATION
OA. General lnformation
OB. Maintenance & Lubrication
1 SECT.
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
1A. Heating and Ventilation
1 B. Air Conditioning
1D1. R-4 AIC Com~ressor Overhaul
FRAME AND BUMPERS
2B. Bumpers 2C. Chassis Sheet Metal
STEERING, SUSPENSION, WHEELS
AND TIRES
3. Diagnosis
3A. Wheel Alignment
3B5. Steering Wheels and Columns 3B6. Steering Linkage 3B7. Power Steering Gear and Pump
3C. Front Suspension
3D. Rear Suspension
3E. Tires and Wheels
FINAL DRIVE
4A. Propeller Shaft
4B. Rear Axle
4B1. Bora-Warner Axle
BRAKES 5. Brakes 5A3. Comoosite Master Cvlinder 5B1. Disc r rake Caliper ~ssembly - 300013100 Series 5B6. Disc Brake Caliper Assembly - 3548
Series
5C3. Direct Torque Drum Brake Assembly 5D2. Power Head Assembly - Tandem Diaohraam 5F. ~~ecifications and Special Tools
ENGINE 6. Engine General lnformation 6A2. 2.8L 6A3. 5.OL & 5.7L 6B. Engine Cooling
6C. En~ine Fuel
6D. ~ngine Electrical 6D1. Battery 6D2. Cranking System 6D3. Charging System 6D4. Ignition System 6D5. Engine Wiring
6E. Driveabilitv and Emissions
6E2. ~missions' 6E3. Emissions - PFI
6F. Engine Exhaust
TRANSMISSION 7A. Automatic Transmission - General
lnformation
7A1. Automatic Transmission - On-Car
Service
700R4. Automatic Transmission Hydraulic Diagnosis
700R4. Automatic Transmission Unit Repair
76. 5-Speed Manual Transmission
7C. Clutch
CHASSIS ELECTRICAL 8A. Electrical Diagnosis
8B. Lighting and Horns
8C. Instrument
Panel, Gages
& Console
8E. Windshield Wiper &Washer System
ACCESSORIES 9A. Radio Systems and Antennas 9B. Cruise Control 9G. Miscellaneous Accessories
I BODY SERVICE MANUAL END
OF
MANUAL

GENERAL INFORMATION OA-5
- THM 700-R4 TRANSMISSION I.D. LOCATION
1-1 IOU DAY OF THE YEAR1
I SHIFT BUILT 1 1 A & B = FIRST SHIFT 1 C 5 H - SECOND SHIFT
THM 700-R4 TRANSMISSION IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
VIN LOCATION
I OPTIONAL VIN LOCATION --I I
Fig. OA-6 --Transmission VIN Location
LUBRICATION POINTS
CHASSIS - SEE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
ENGINE OIL AND FILTER
COOLING SYSTEM WHEEL BEARINGS
AUTO TRANSMISSION FLUID
LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINTS
I I
ENGINE COMPARTMENT
STEERING LINKAGE
Fig. OA-7 Typical Lubrication Points

- -
GENERAL INFORMATION OA-13
LIST OF AUTOMOTIVE ABBREVIATIONS
WHICH MAY
BE USED IN THIS MANUAL
A-6 - Axial 6 Cyl. A C Compressor AIC - Air Conditioning
ACC - Auto'matic Climate Control
EMF
- Electromotive Force PAIR - Pulse Air Injection Reaction System
EMR - Electronic Module Retard
P B - Power Brakes
EOS - Exhaust Oxygen Sensor
PCV - Positive Crankcase Ventilation
ESC - Electronic Spark Control
PECV - Power Enrichment Control Valve
APT
- Adjustable Part Throttle
AT - Automatic Transmission
ATC - Automatic Temperature Control
ATDC
- After Top Dead Center
FMVSS
- Federal Motor Vehicle Safety BAR0 - Barometric Absolute Pressure Sensor
Ft. Lb. - Foot Pounds (Torque)
Bat. + - Positive Terminal FWD - Front Wheel Drive
- Four Wheel Drive
BHP - Brake Horsepower 4 x 4 - Four Wheel Drive
BP - Back Pressure
BTDC - Before Top Dead Center
HD - Heavy Duty HE1 - High Energy Ignition
Cat. Conv. - Catalytic Converter
CC - Catalytic Converter
- Cubic Centimeter - Converter Clutch
CCC - Computer Command Control
HVM
- Heater-Vent-Module
IAC
- ldle Air Control CCOT - Cycling Clutch (Orifice) Tube IC - Integrated Circuit CCP - Controlled Canister Purge
ID - Identification
C.E. - Check Engine - Inside Diameter
CEAB - Cold Engine Airbleed ILC - Idle Load Compensator
CEMF - Counter Electromotive Force I/P - Instrument Panel
CID - Cubic Inch Displacement ISC - Idle Speed Control CLOOp - Closed Loop
CLCC - Closed Loop Carburetor Control km - Kilometers
CP
- Canister Purge kmiL - Kilometers Liter (mpg) Cu. In. - Cubic Inch kPa - Kilopascals
CV - Constant Velocity
Cyl.
- Cylinder(s)
L-4 - Four Cylinder In-Line (Engine)
DBB - Dual Bed Bead L-6 - Six Cylinder In-Line (Engine)
DBM - Dual Bed Monolith
LF - Left Front DEFl - Digital Electronic Fuel Injection LR - Left Rear DFI - Digital Fuel Injection
Diff. - Differential Man. Vac. - Manifold Vacuum Distr. - Distributor MAP - Manifold Absolute Pressure
EAC
- Electric Air Control Valve
EAS - Electric Air Switching Valve MPG - Miles Per Gallon
ECC - Electronic Comfort Control
MPH - Miles Per Hour
ECM - Electronic Control Module MT - Manual Transmission
N.m - Newton Metres (Torque)
Emission Control
Fig. 014-15 -- Common Abbreviations

MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION OB-1
SECTION OB
NTENANCE AND LUBR
CONTENTS
Maintenance Schedule, Gasoline .............................................. OB-l
Maintenance Schedules I and 11 .............................................. OB-2
Owner Inspections
......................................................... OB-3
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ......................................... OB-6
PASSENGER CAR MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
VEHICLES
WITH GASOLINE ENGINE
NORMAL CAR USE ITEM 4
The maintenance services contained in Schedules I Carburetor or Throttle Body Mounting Bolt
and 11 are based on the assumption that your car will be Torque* used as designed:
Check torque of mounting bolts and/or nuts. @ To carry passengers and cargo within the limits
shown on the Tire Placard located on the edge of the ITEM 5 driver's door.
@ On reasonable road surfaces within legal driving Engine Idle Speed Adjustment*
limits. (Engines
without Idle Speed Control or Idle Air
Control) - Adjust to specifications shown on the under- @ On unleaded gasoline.
hood label. If no specifications are shown on the label, no
adjustment is necessary. Calibrated test equipment must
EXPLANATION OF SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE be used. SERVICES
The services listed in Maintenance Scheduies I and ITEM 6
11 are further explained below. When the following main- ~i~~ and wheel aotation tenance services are performed, make sure all parts are
replaced and all necessary repairs are done before driving To equalize wear and obtain maximum tire life,
your car. Be sure to use the proper fluid and lubricants as rotate in accordance with patterns shown in Owner's
shown in Figure OB-2. Manual.
ITEM 1
Engine Oil and Oil Filter Change*
ALWAYS USE SFICC OR SF/CD ENERGY CON-
SERVING OILS OF PROPER VISCOSITY
- Also.
always change oil and filter as soon as possible after
driving in a dust storm. See your Owner's Manual for
further details.
ITEM 2
Chassis Lubrication
Lubricate all grease fittings in suspension and steer-
ing linkage. Lubricate
transmissionltransaxle shift
linkage, parking brake cable guides, underbody contact
points and linkage. Also lubricate clutch cross shaft lever
every
30,000 miles (50 000 km) on rear-wheel-drive cars
only.
ITEM 3
Carburetor Choke and Hoses*
If your car is equipped with a carburetor, verify that
choke and vacuum break work properly and are within
specifications. Correct any binding caused by damage or
gum on the choke shaft. Inspect hoses for proper hookup,
cracks, chafing or decay. Correct as necessary.
Vacuum or A.I.R. Pump Drive Belt Inspection*
When a separate belt is used to drive the vacuum or
A.I.R.
pump, inspect it for cracks, fraying, wear and
proper tension. Adjust or replace as needed.
ITEM 8
Cooling System Service*
Drain, flush and refill system with new coolant. See
your Owner's Manual
for further details.
ITEM 9
Wheel Bearing Repack (Rear-Wheel-Drive Cars
Only Except Corvette)
Clean and repack front wheel bearings at each brake
relining or 15,000 miles
(25 000 km), whichever comes
first, when car is used in such service as police, taxi or
door-to-door delivery. If you do not use your car in such
service, clean and repack bearings at each brake relining
or 30,000 miles
(50 000 km), whichever comes first.
Corvette models do not require wheel bearing repack.

F CARLINE
ITEM 10
TransmissionRransaxle Service
The manual transmission or transaxle fluid does not
require changing. (Corvette only.) Change fluid in over-
drive unit every 30,000 miles (50 000 km).
For automatic transmissions or transaxles, change
both the fluid and filter every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) if
the car is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
@ In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
@ In hilly or mountainous terrain.
@ Frequent trailer pulling.
@ Uses such as found in taxi, police car or delivery
service.
If you do not use your car under any of these condi-
tions, change both the fluid and filter every 100,000 miles
(160 000 km). See you Owner's Manual for further
details.
ITEM 11
Spark Plug Service*
Replace spark plugs with type listed in your Owner's
Manual.
ITEM 12
Spark Plug Wire Inspection*
Clean wires and inspect for burns, cracks or other dam-
age. Check the wire boot fit at distributor and at spark plugs.
Replace wires as needed.
ITEM 13
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve
Inspection*
Inspect valve for proper function. Replace valve if
necessary as well as any worn, plugged or collapsed
hoses.
ITEM 14
EGR System Service*
Conduct EGR System Service as referenced in the
EGR System Chart shown in the appropriate 6E Section.
Also, refer to your GM maintenance schedule booklet for
specific applications.
ITEM 15
Air Cleaner and PCV Filter Replacement*
On 1.6 and 2.0 liter engines, replace every 50,000
miles (80 000 km). On all other engines, replace every
30,000 miles (50 000 km). Replace more often under
dusty conditions. Ask your dealer for the proper replace-
ment interval for your driving conditions.
MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION 08-3
ITEM 16
Engine Timing Check*
Adjust timing to underhood label specifications. If
no specifications are shown, no adjustment is needed.
ITEM 17
Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection*
Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines (including fuel rails
and injection assembly, if so equipped) for damage or
leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for an even filler neck
imprint or any damage. Replace parts as needed.
ITEM 18
Thermostatically Controlled Air Cleaner
Inspection*
If your car is equipped, inspect all hoses and ducts
for proper hookup. Make sure valve works properly.
OWNER INSPECTIONS AND SERVICES
Listed below are inspections and services which
should be made by either you or a qualified technician at
the intervals shown to help ensure proper safety, emission
performance and dependability of your car. Take any
problems promptly to your dealer or another qualified
technician for service advice. Whenever repairs are neces-
sary, have them completed at once. For your safety and
that of others, any safety-related parts that could have
been damaged in an accident should be inspected and all
needed repairs should be done before operating your car.
Be sure to use the proper fluids and lubricants as shown in
Figure OB-2.
WHILE OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE
Automatic transmissionltransaxle shift indi-
cator operation - Make sure the indicator points to the
gear chosen.
Horn operation - Blow the horn occasionally to
make sure it works. Check all button locations.
I
Brake system operation -- Be alert to abnormal
sounds, increased brake pedal travel or repeated pulling to
one side when braking. Also, if a brake warning light
comes on or flashes, or the anti-lock warning light (if
equipped) comes on or remains on, something may be
wrong with part of the brake system. Have it inspected and
repaired at once.
Exhaust system operation - Be alert to any
changes in the sound of the system or any smell of fumes.
These are signs the system may be leaking or overheating.
.
Have it inspected and repaired at once. Also see "Engine
Exhaust Gas Caution (Carbon Monoxide)" and "Catalytic
Converter" in your Owner's Manual.
*An Emission Control Service

OB-4 MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION
Tire and wheel operation - Be alert to a vibra-
tion of the steering wheel or seat at normal highway
speeds. This may mean a wheel balance is needed. Also, a
pull right or left on a straight, level road may show the
need for
a tire pressure adjustment or wheel alignment.
Steering system operation - Be alert to
changes in steering action. An inspection is needed when
the steering wheel is harder to turn or has too much free
play or if unusual sounds are noted when turning or
parking.
Headlight aim operation - Take note of light
pattern occasionally. If beam aim doesn't look right,
headlights should be adjusted.
AT EACH FUEL FILL
Engine oil level check - Check engine oil level
and add if necessary. See your Owner's
Manual for further
details.
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and repaired at once.
Engine coolant level and condition - Check
engine coolant level in coolant reservoir tank and add if
necessary. Replace if dirty or rusty. See your Owner's
Manual for further details.
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and repaired at once.
Windshield washer fluid level check -- Check
washer fluid level in container and add if necessary.
Hood latch operation - When opening hood on
cars equipped with hoods that open from the front, note
the operation of secondary latch. It should keep hood from
opening all the way when primary latch is released. Make
sure that hood closes firmly.
AT LEAST MONTI-ILY
Tire and wheel inspection and pressure
check--
Check tires for abnormal wear or damage. Also,
check for damaged wheels. Keep pressures as shown on
Tire Placard on the driver's door (include spare unless it is
a stowaway). Pressure should b\: checked when tires are
"cold". See "Tires" in Owner's Manual for further
infomation.
Light operation check - Check operation of
license plate light, side-marker lights, headlights includ-
ing high beams, parking lights, taillights, brake lights.
turn signals, backup lights, instrument panel and interior
lights and hazard warning flashers.
Fluid leak check - After the car has been parked
for a while, inspect the surface beneath the car for water,
oil, fuel or other fluids. Water dripping from the air
conditioning system after use is normal. If you notice fuel
leaks or fumes, the cause should be found and corrected at
once.
AT LEAST TWICE A YEAR (FOR EXAMPLE,
EVERY SPRING AND FALL)
Power steering pump fluid level check --
Check power steering pump fluid level in accordance with
Owner's Manual instructions and keep at proper level.
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and repaired at once.
Brake master cylinder reservoir fluid level
check ---- Check fluid and keep at proper level. Note: It is
normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the
brake pads wear
- so be sure to keep reservoir filled.
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have
it inspected and repaired at once.
Clutch system service --- manual transmis-
sionltransaxle --- For cars equipped with hydraulic
clutch system, check the reservoir fluid level and add fluid
as required. All others, check clutch pedal free travel and
adjust as necessary. See your Owner's Manual for further
details.
~
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and repaired at once.
Weatherstrip Lubrication - Clean surface and
then apply a thin film of silicone grease with a clean cloth.
EACH TIME OIL IS CHANGED
Automatic and manual transmissionltrans-
axle fluid level check - Check transmission/transaxle
fluid level and add as required. (Corvette only) if equipped
with manual transmission
- check fluid in the overdrive
unit and add as required.
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have
it inspected and repaired at once.
Brake systems inspection - For convenience,
the following should be done when wheels are removed
for rotation: Inspect lines and hoses for proper hookup,
binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake
pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also in-
spect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect
other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, park-
ing brake, etc. at the same time. Check parking brake
adjustment.
INSPECT BRAKES MORE OFTEN IF DRIVING
HABITS OR CONDITIONS RESULT IN FREQUENT
BRAKING.
Steering, suspension and front drive axle
boot and seal inspection
- Inspect front and rear
suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or
missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect
power steering lines and hoses for proper hookup, bind-
ing, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. (On cars equipped with
manual steering gear, check for seal leakage.) On
front-
wheel-drive cars, clean then inspect drive axle boot seals
for damage, tears or leakage. Replace seals if necessary.
Exhaust system inspection - Inspect complete
system. Inspect body near the exhaust system. Look for
broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well
as open seams, holes, loose connections or other condi-
tions which could cause a heat buildup in the tloor pan or
could let exhaust fumes seep into the trunk or passenger
compartment.

MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION OB-5
Throttle linkage inspection -- Inspect for inter-
ference, binding, damaged or missing parts.
Engine drive belts inspection - Inspect all
belts for cracks, fraying and wear. Adjust or replace as
needed.
Rear axle service (if equipped) - Check gear
lubricant level and add if needed. For cars equipped with a
limited slip rear axle, fluid does not require changing
(except Caprice and Corvette
- change fluid and required
additive at first
7,500 miles (12 500 km). See your
Owner's Manual or "Recommended Fluids
& Lubricants
Chart" in this section.
IF YOU USE YOUR GAR TO PULL A TRAILER,
CHANGE GEAR LUBRICANT EVERY 7,500 MILES
(12 500 KM).
NOTICE: A large loss in this system may indicate a
problem. Have it inspected and repaired at once.
Power antenna - Clean and then lubricate power
antenna mast. The proper lubricant as shown in Figure
OB-2 should be used.
AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR
Lap and shoulder belts condition and opera-
tion
- Inspect belt system, including webbing, buckles,
latch plates, retractors, guide loops and anchors.
Moveable head restraint operation - On cars
with moveable restraints, make sure restraints stay in the
desired position. (See adjustment instructions in your
Owner's Manual.)
Seatback latch and recliner operation on
cars equipped
with recliner seat --- Be sure seat-
backs latch on those cars with folding seats using mechan-
ical latches. Make sure the recliner is holding by pushing
and pulling on the top of the
seatback while it is reclined.
See your Owner's Manual for seat operating information.
Spare tire and jack storage- Be alert to rattles
in rear of car. Make sure the space tire, all jacking equip-
ment, any tire inflator and any covers or doors are securely
stowed at all times. Oil jack ratchet or screw mechanism
after each use.
Key lock service - Lubricate key lock cylinder at
least annually.
Body lubrication service - Lubricate all body
door hinges including the tailgate or hatchback lid (if
equipped). Also lubricate the body hood, fuel door and
rear compartment hinges and latches including interior
glove box and counsel doors, and any folding seat
hardware.
"Fansmissionltransaxle neutral or clutch
starl switch operation
CAUnON: Before pedorming the follow-
ing safety switch check, be sure to have
enough room around the car. Then, firmly
apply both the parking brake (see your
Owner's Manual for procedure) and the
regular brakes. Do not use the accelerator pedal.
If the engine
starls, be ready to turn
off the ignition promptly. Take these pre-
cautions because the car could move
without warning and possibly cause per-
sonal injury or properly damage. On auto-
matic transmissionltransaxle cars, try to
starl the engine in each gear. The starler
should crank only in "Park" or "Neutral."
On manual transmissionltransaxle cars,
place the
shiR lever in "Neutral," push the
clutch halfway and try to starl. The starler
should crank only when the clutch is fully
depressed.
Steering column lock operation
- While
parked, try to turn key to "Lock" in each gear range. The
key should turn to "Lock" only when gear is in "Park" on
automatic or "Reverse" on manual
transmissionltransax-
le. On cars with key release lever, try to turn key toULock"
without depressing the lever. The key should turn to
"Lock" only with the key lever depressed. On all vehicles,
the key should come out only in "Lock."
Parking brake and transmissionltransaxle
"Park" mechanism operation
CAUT1ON:Before checking the holding
ability of the parking brake and automatic
transmissionltransaxle "Park" mecha-
nism, park on a fairly steep hill with
enough room for movement in the down-
hill direction. To reduce the risk of person-
al injury or property damage, be prepared
to apply the regular brakes promptly if the
car begins to move.
To check the parking brake, with the engine running and
transmission/transaxle in "Neutral." slowly remove foot
pressure from the regular brake pedal (until the car is held
by only the parking brake).
To check the automatic transmissionltransaxle "Park"
mechanism holding ability, release all brakes after shift-
ing the transmissionltransaxle to "Park."
ljnderbody flushing - At least every spring,
tlush from the underbody with plain water any corrosive
materials used for ice and snow removal and dust control.
Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
Sediment packed in closed areas
of the vehicle should be loosened before being flushed.
Engine cooling system service - Inspect
coolant and freeze protection. If dirty or rusty, drain, flush
and refill with new coolant. Keep coolant
at the proper
mixture as specified in your Owner's Manual. This pro-
vides proper freeze protection. corrosion inhibitor level
and engine operating temperature. Inspect hoses and re-
place if cracked. swollen or deteriorated. Tighten hose
clamps. Clean outside of radiator and air conditioning
condensor. Wash radiator filler cap and neck.
To help
ensure proper operation. a pressure test of both the cooling
system and cap is also recommended. (See maintenance
schedule charts in Figure
OB-l for the recommended
coolant change interval.)

BUMPERS 28-1
SECTION 2B
BUMPERS
NOTICE: These fasteners are important attaching parts in that they could affect the performance of vital parts and
systems,
andlor could result in major repair expense. They must be replaced with one of the same part number or with an
equivalent
part if replacement becomes necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design.
Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to assure proper retention of all parts. There is to be no
welding as it may result in extensive damage and weakening of the metal.
NOTICE: The anti-theft label on some major sheet metal, engines, and transmissions must be masked prior to
painting, rustproofing, undercoating, etc. The mask MUST be removed following the above operations. Failure to keep
the label clean and readable may result in liability for violation of Federal Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard, and subject
the vehicle owner to possible suspicion that the part was stolen.
CONTENTS
General Description ................................ 2B-1 On-Vehicle Service ..................................... 2B-4
........................................... ..................... Service Procedures .. ........... 2B- 1 Specifications 2B-5
GENERAL DESCRIPWIBN
The bumpers on all Pontiac automobiles are remover.
Install new tape (double-coated neoprene
designed so that the vehicle can withstand a collision foam type)
to the back side of the rub strip.
into a fixed barrier at
5 mph. After absorbing the
energy of a collision, the bumpers restore themselves After
rub strip is installed, roll along entire
to their original position. surface with a roller
in order to insure a good bond.
The front and rear bumper fascias are made of
urethane. Urethane will withstand minor impact and
return to its original shape. Some front bumper fascias
are integral with the front end panel.
Some models use both steel and aluminum
bumper reinforcements. Usage is based on
EPA weight
class requirements.
BUMPER FASCIA RUB STRIPS
Some front and rear fascia rub strips are made of
a shiny plastic material. If a rub strip of this type loses
its lustre, the original shine can be restored by using
GM Plastic Cleaner or its equivalent. Follow directions
on the label.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
RUB STRIPS
Remove and Replace
Some plastic rub strips have an adhesive tape
backing (similar to a body side molding) and some have
studs or retaining tabs. In order to properly remove the
adhesive tape and avoid paint damage to the fascia, use
either a release agent or a heat lamp to soften the bond
of the adhesive tape to the fascia. In some cases, it will
be necessary to replace the rub strip with a new rub
strip instead of reusing the old one.
If the old rub strip is salvagable, remove all tape
from the back side of the rub strip as previously
described. Wipe strip clean with a wax and adhesive
FRONT BUMPER FASCIA (FRONT END PANEL)
Removal
Place a jack stand under fascia assembly before
removing bolts to prevent it from dropping down when
fascia attaching bolts are removed. Fascia will pivot on
the opposite end when one end is disconnected. Do not
rotate energy absorber any more than necessary to
align mounting holes.
1. Remove fascia attaching bolts and fascia to
fender attaching screws on right and left side, and
remove fascia and spacers.
2. If energy absorber is to be replaced, remove the
bolts and nuts from the front of the unit and the
nut from the stud at the rear.
Installation
1. Install energy absorber if removed.
2. Support fascia during installation to prevent
rotation of energy absorbers.
3. Install spacers and bolts at fascia to energy
absorber brackets.
4. Install fascia to fender attaching screws.
5. Check for proper clearance.
6. If adjustment is required to align fascia, loosen
energy absorber mounting bolts and position as
required (holes are slotted). Adjustment side to
side can be made by loosening fascia bracket
bolts. Torque all bolts and nuts. (See
Specifications.)

REAR SUSPENSION 30.1
SECTION 3D
REAR SUSPENS
NOTICE: All rear suspension fasteners are important attaching parts in that they could affect the
performance of vital parts and systems, and/or could result in major repair expense. They must be replaced with
one of the same part number or with an equivalent part if replacement becomes necessary. Do not use
a
replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly
to assure proper retention of all parts. There is to be no welding as it may result in extensive damage and weakening
of the metal.
CONTENTS
General Information ................................ 3D- 1 Rear Lower Control Arm ............................ 3D-4
Qn-Car Service ............................ .. .......... 3D- 1 Bushing (Rear Lower Control Arm) ........... 3D-4
Shock Absorbers ........................................ 3D- 1 Torque Arm .............................................. 3D-5
Coil Springs and Insulators ......................... 3D- 1 Rear Stabilizer Shaft .................................. 3D-6
Track Bar ................................................... 3D-3 Bumper (Rubber) ....................................... 3D-6
Track Bar Brace ................... .. ................. 3D-3 Torque Specifications .................................. 3D-9
GENERAL INFORMATION
The rear axle assembly is attached to the vehicle
through a link type suspension system. The axle
housing is connected to the body by two lower control
arms and a track bar. A single torque arm is used in
place of upper control arms. It is rigidly mounted to the
rear axle housing at the rear and through a rubber
bushing to the transmission at the front. Coil springs
are used to support the weight of the car, and ride
control is provided by shock absorbers mounted to the
rear of the axle housing. A stabilizer shaft is optional.
The shock absorbers are mounted at the bottom
with a bolt and nut to brackets welded to the axle
housing, and at the top to the reinforced body area with
a nut. The only service the shock absorbers require is
replacement if they
have lost tllcir resistance, are
danaged, or are leaking flldd.
ON-CAR SERVICE
SI-IOCK ABSORBERS
Fig. 602
Remove or Disconnect
1. Hoist car and support rear axle.
2. From above, pull back carpeting and remove
shock absorber upper mounting nut.
NOTICE: Axle assembly must be supported
before removing upper shock absorber nut to avoid
possible damage to brake lines, track bar and prop
shaft.
3. Loosen and remove shock absorber lower
mounting nut from shock absorber. Remove
shock.
Install or Connect
NOTICE: See NOTICE on Page 3D-1 of this
section.
1. Position shock absorber through body mounting
hole and loosely install the lower shock absorber
mounting nut.
2. From above, install the upper shock absorber
retainer and nut. Torque nut.
3. Torque lower shock absorber nut.
4. Remove rear axle support and lower car.
COIL SPRINGS AND INSULATORS
Fig. 603
Remove or Disconnect
1. Hoist car on non twin post-type hoist and support
rear axle assembly with an adjustable lifting
device.
2. Track bar mounting bolt at axle assembly.
Loosen track bar bolt at body brace.
3. Rear brake hose clip at underbody to allow
additional axle drop.
4. Right and left shock absorber lower attaching
nuts.
5. Carefully lower rear axle and remove spring(s)
and or insulator(s).
NOTICE: DO NOT suspend rear axle by brake
hose. Damage to hose could result.
Install or Connect
NOTICE: See NOTICE on Page 3D-1 of this
section.

30-8 WEAR SUSPENSION
WITH 700 R4 TRANSMISSION
1-41 Nern (30 FT.
LB.)
2-41 Nern (30 FT. LB.)
3-TORQUE ARM
4-27 Nern
(20 FT. LB.)
5-CONVERTER HANGER
6-TORQUE 135
Nern (100 FT. LB.)
Fig. 608 Torque Arm Attachment; Auto. Trans.
6. Torque arm rear attaching bolts. 5. Shocks to rear axle. Toique nuts.
7. Front torque arm outer bracket and remove
6. Thoroughly clean track bar to axle assembly bolt
torque arm. and nut
as outlined under Recommendations for
Reuse of Prevailing Torque Fasteners in Section
Install or Connect OA.
7. Brake line clip to underbody. On Page 3D-1 of this 8. Remove adjustable lifting device and lower car.
section.
1. Position torque arm and loosely install rear
torque arm bolts.
2. Install front torque arm bracket and torque nuts
to 27
N.m (20 1b.ft.) specifications as outlined in
Figs.
608 and 609.
3.
Torque rear torque arm nuts.
4. Position springs and insulators in spring seats and
raise rear axle until rear axle supports weight of
vehicle at normal curb height position.
REAR STABILIZER SHAFT
NOTICE: See NOTICE on Page 3D-1 of this
section.
The rear stabilizer shaft is available on some
models and attaches as shown in Fig.
610.
BUMPER (RUBBER)
The rear axle bumper is located on the top of the
axle housing as shown in Fig.
61 1.