Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Utility Stand

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

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 or to Frame Cushion or Insulator Replacement - Rear .
Position the engine support table with the frame under the vehicle.
Lower the vehicle to the frame.
Loosely install the bolts to secure the rear frame to the body.

Fig 2: View Of Bolts From Rear Frame Of Body

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Loosely install the bolts to secure the front frame to the body.

Fig 3: View Of Bolts From Front Frame Of Body

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Align the frame to the body by inserting two 19 X 203 mm (0.74 X 8 in) pins in the alignment holes on the right side of the frame.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Install the front and rear frame bolts.
Tighten: Tighten the bolts to 180 N.m (133 lb ft).
Install the drivetrain reinforcements using the following procedure:
1. Position the drivetrain reinforcements to the font cradle mount stud to the support brace.
2. Loosely install the drivetrain reinforcement to support brace bolts.
3. Install the drivetrain reinforcement to cradle mount nut.
  Tighten:
  - Tighten the drivetrain reinforcement brace nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
  - Tighten the drivetrain reinforcement brace bolts to 25 N.m (18 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 Engine Mount 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.
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.
If applicable, connect the wheel speed sensor wiring harness to the frame and lower control arm.

Fig 4: View Of Front Wheel Speed Sensor Harness Connectors

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

If applicable, connect the front wheel speed sensor connectors (1).
If applicable, install the front wheel speed harness retainers (2) to the frame and to the lower control arm.
Install the positive battery cable and retainers to the frame. Refer to Battery Positive Cable Replacement in Engine Electrical.
Install the power steering cooler pipe. Refer to Power Steering Return Hose Replacement in Power Steering System.
Connect the fog lamp harness connectors.
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 Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 3.8L.
Inspect the front wheel alignment. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment in Wheel Alignment.