Interior - Squawk From Front Suspension Or Engine Area

File In Section: 3 - Steering/Suspension

Bulletin No.: 73-33-01A

Date: December, 1997

Subject:
Squawk Noise Coming from Front Suspension or Engine Compartment Area (Install Ultra High Molecular Tape)

Models:
1993-98 Buick Skylark
1993-94 Chevrolet Cavalier
1993-96 Chevrolet Beretta, Corsica
1993-98 Oldsmobile Achieva
1993-94 Pontiac Sunbird
1993-98 Pontiac Grand Am

This bulletin is being revised to add the 1998 model for the N-Car and eliminate VIN Breakpoints. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 73-33-01 (Section 3 - Steering/Suspension).

Condition

Some owners may comment on a "squawk" noise coming from the front suspension or engine compartment area. This noise may be more noticeable over small bumps, entering parking lots, and including any irregular road surfaces. This condition may also be more noticeable in cold weather conditions.

Cause

The squawk noise may be caused by the rubber stabilizer bushing material bleeding through the Teflon/Polyester sock (on later models) and coming into contact with the stabilizer shaft. On earlier models, the squawk may be caused from friction when the stabilizer bushing is grabbing and releasing the stabilizer shaft.

Correction

If the above conditions exist, perform the following repair:

1. Remove front stabilizer bushing clamps and bushings. Refer to Section 3C of the Service Manual.

2. Inspect stabilizer bushings for visible wear, replace if necessary.

3. Use crocus cloth (or equivalent) to sand the stabilizer shaft where the stabilizer bushings contact the stabilizer shaft. Sand all rough corrosion thoroughly. Do not remove paint if it is intact.

4. Install UHM (Ultra High Molecular) tape (provided in kit, P/N 22602686) into stabilizer bushing; adhesive side of tape should be installed onto the bushing. Install UHM tape to the opening of the bushing (the slit) as well as the circumference (this will secure the tape in place). Kit provides enough tape for two bushings (one vehicle).

5. Reassemble.

Parts Information

P/N Description

22602686 Service Kit
(Consists of Tape and
Instruction Sheet)





Stabilizer Bushings Only

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

Labor Operation Labor Time

E2180 Use published labor
operation time

Add 0.9 hr