Repair for Suspension Leans to the Left Condition

Some 2015-2018 Colorado and Canyon models (Fig. 3) may appear to be leaning slightly toward the left side due to the mass distribution of the vehicle.

If this condition is noticed, installing a shim on the rear left-side of the vehicle between the rear axle and the left-side leaf spring, or installing a shim on the rear left-side of the vehicle and a new front coil spring will adjust the suspension to correct the leaning appearance.

Fig. 3

To determine the amount of lean present on the vehicle, measure the wheel opening heights. Wheel opening trim heights are different from the Z (front) and D (rear) trim heights.

Before making any measurements:

  • Set the tire pressures to the proper pressures (according to the Tire and Loading Information label by the driver’s door latch)
  • Fill the fuel tank (GM does not cover fuel costs) or simulate weight of a full fuel tank
  • Ensure proper weight distribution
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface, such as an alignment ramp

 

P and R Measurements

The front wheel-opening height is known as P height and the rear wheel-opening height is known as R height. (Fig. 4) These heights will indicate the most direct and repeatable measurement of a leaning condition.

Measure from the top of the fender wheel opening through the center of the wheel to the ground.

  • If the cross P height or cross R height (the difference between the left-side and right-side P height measurement or left-side and right-side R height measurement) is 12 mm (0.47 inches) or less, no repairs are necessary.
  • If the cross P height measurement is 13 mm (0.5 inches) or more, install a shim and front coil spring.
  • If the cross R height measurement is 13 mm (0.5 inches) or more, install a shim.

Fig. 4

 

Shim Installment

The shim is installed between the left-rear leaf spring and the axle. Tension should be maintained on the leaf spring using a C-clamp on each end of the spring.

The shim slides under the spring and the bolt, up through the hole of the spring. (Fig. 5)

Fig. 5

The shim should line up with the leaf spring. (Fig. 6) It’s not necessary to remove the leaf spring or the fuel tank. Do not disassemble or remove the right-rear leaf spring.

Fig. 6

After installing the shim and, if necessary, front coil spring, the vehicle must be driven 3 to 5 miles (5 to 8 km) to settle the suspension.

TIP: Measurements of the new P and R heights must be taken after repairs are completed. Before and after measurements must be attached to the warranty claim when a front coil spring has been replaced.

Refer to Bulletin #18-NA-108 for additional information, part numbers and front coil spring selection instructions for 2WD and 4WD vehicles equipped with a gasoline or diesel engine.

– Thanks to Charles Hensley and Ed Flanagan

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One Comment

  1. Danny Lester says:

    When you say front spring is it the left front coil spring you replace or the right?