Instructions in the packaging

Oh yeah, I forgot about instructions..

Yup!

Don, are they loose enough for the washers to rattle?

Don, at least yours match!

Ok....here'* the deal (with ALL the details for 92-99, all models):

The link kit from GM is crap. Not sure when the change happened, but GM is using plastic spacers and washers on the new kits (verified in person at the local dealer). I think the plastic would give too much, and doesn't provide enough support for the insulators, especially on the firmer SSE/SSEi suspensions. Wanna firm up your ride?

Buy Energy Suspension kit #9.8120RC. This kit is for the left and right (front) endlinks. It'* complete with BIGGER than stock bolts (and shorter, thank god), washers, and POLYURETHANE bushings (insulators). I got mine at Autozone for about $15 for BOTH sides (in the same package....full front kit). Follow the advice previously stated in this thread for install, but the kit comes with good directions, too. You don't need a maintenance manual. Just a good set of ramps and basic tools.

Wanna do the rear? Leave it to GM. They don't sell a kit for the rear. Each individual piece (bolt, nut, 2 washers, 3 insulators) have to be purchased seperately. Combined, it'll run you about $25. I have a better idea. Buy just the BOLT from GM. Get 2 of the 10026678 bolts (trust me, you want new....don't re-use the old), should run just shy of 4 bucks each. Then go to your local hardware store and buy two 8mm 'nylock' hex nuts. Fit them to the bolts to make sure, and try to get stainless steel. Now go BACK to Autozone and buy the Energy Suspension kit # 9.8105RC Bushing set. Comes with 8 washers and 8 bushings (insulators). You'll have 2 extra of each. Cost me $9 (US).

I haven't done the rear yet, but I now have a better than stock kit ready to go in for less than $20 for the rear.

Here they are lined up (left to right):

Far left, new package, old front endlinks. Far right, new rear endlink 'kit'.


Enjoy. And thanks again to our Gearheads for starting this new 'trend'.

Bill, thanks a TON!! Same to the Gearheads. I noted the kit #*. I'll order those bolts now (unless it'* easier to get it from the dealer?). Can't wait to replace these.

Dealer will have to order too. Up to you.

Just ordered them from GMPD. Hopefully they won't screw it up.

Thanks Bill.

If the spacers aren't hammered to the point that the links are sloppy, I doubt you'd feel much difference in changing them, other than a slight increase perhaps from the polyurethane, as it'* a bit firmer than the stock bushings.