Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and 2004 Chevrolet Impala. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

If you are replacing the frame, install the following components:
- Both of the lower control arms. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension.
- The stabilizer shaft. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement in Front Suspension.
- The spacers, the upper insulator, the lower insulator, and the retainers. Refer to Frame Cushion or Insulator Replacement - Front and to Frame Cushion or Insulator Replacement - Rear .
Position the engine support table with the frame under the vehicle.

Fig 2: Identifying Utility Stand

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Lower the vehicle to the frame.
Loosely install the bolts to secure the rear frame to the body.

Fig 3: Rear Frame To Body Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Loosely install the bolts to secure the front and rear frame to the body.
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Fig 4: Front Frame To Body Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Align the frame to the body by inserting two 19X203 mm (0.74X8.0 in) pins in the alignment holes on the right side of the frame.
Tighten:
- Tighten the new front frame bolts to 160 N.m (118 lb ft).
- Tighten the new rear frame bolts to 165 N.m (122 lb ft).
Connect both the lower ball joints to the steering knuckle. Refer to Lower Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension.
Install the nuts which secure the engine mount to the frame. Refer to one of the following procedures:
- Engine Mount Replacement in Engine Mechanical - 3.4L
- Engine Mount and Bracket Replacement in Engine Mechanical - 3.8L
Install the nuts which secure the transaxle mount to the frame. Refer to Automatic Transmission Mount Replacement in Automatic Transaxle-4T65-E.
Remove the power steering gear from the exhaust pipe. Position to the frame.
Install the steering gear mounting bolts. Refer to Power Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
Install the stabilizer shaft links. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement in Front Suspension.
Connect both front wheel speed sensor connectors (1), if equipped.
Install both front wheel speed harness retainers (2) to the frame and to the lower control arm, if equipped.

Fig 5: Front Wheel Speed Sensor Connectors & Speed Harness Retainers

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the positive battery cable. Refer to Battery Positive Cable Replacement in Engine Electrical.
Install the power steering cooler pipe. Refer to Power Steering Cooler Pipe/Hose Replacement in Power Steering System.
Install the radiator lower air deflector. Refer to Radiator Air Baffle and Deflector Replacement - Lower in Engine Cooling.
Install the front tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
Lower the vehicle.
Remove the engine support fixture. Refer to one of the following procedures:
- Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 3.4L
- Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 3.8L
Inspect the front wheel alignment. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment in Wheel Alignment.