reinstall order - C2 - rear susp.

[Ryan Clark]

I have most of my rear suspension on my garage floor ready to reinstall. Trailing Arms, Leaf Spring, Strut Rods, Half shafts & Shocks. My question is the basic order of reinstallation. I have read thru the service manual, but still have a couple questions.

This seems to be the basic order. Install T. arms, attach half shafts, attach strut rods, attach shocks, and finally install the leaf spring. Torque as stated in the service manual. Torque strut rods and leaf spring bracket with car on the ground.

When should I install the trailing arm shims.? Before I start connecting the strut rods and half shafts? Or after everything is loosely connected but before torqueing everything? Or after everything is torqued down.? I do have the original shims that were taken out. So I can replace them with the same thickness 'new' shims in the proper locations.

I want to do this right so everything goes together properly the first time.

Thanks
Ryan

[Joe L.]

Re: reinstall order - C2 - rear susp.

Ryan----

You've got the order of assembly right. Install the trailing arm shims immediately after installing the trailing arms. You can replace the existing shims with the same thickness new shims. This is only going to give you a "starting point", anyway; you'll need to have the alignment checked/corrected at an alignment shop. I recommend using ONLY the slotted style shims and the stainless steel variety.

[John H.]

Re: reinstall order - C2 - rear susp.

Ryan -

The trailing arm front bushing bolts shouldn't be torqued until the car is on the ground as well.

[Ryan Clark]

Re: reinstall order - C2 - rear susp.

Thanks Joe,

I purchased a new set of shims from Vette Brakes, along with some other items. Once I get the rear suspension back together, I can start on the front.

Ryan