Rear trailing arm replacement

[98SSE]

I'm needing to replace my rear trailing arms and looking for some advice. From what I've read I need to lower the subframe (Correct me if I'm wrong) to remove the bolt and clear the gas tank. Is there a write up for this or a PDF ? Never dropped any sort of subframe or cradle before.

[Archon]

There is enough wiggle room to replace the alignment links without dropping anything. Just be sure to remove it from the knuckle first. Note the current position of the markings by the center link, and try to get as close as possible to the same position when installing the new links. Then, get a rear alignment.

I know that Andrew posted that he was able to do it without dropping anything, but don't recall if he posted a "how to" on it. It is a pretty easy job.

[bogard985]

I was personally able to remove the rear trailing arms/lateral links pretty easily without having to lower the subframe. I would suggest soaking down the alignment bolts with some sort of penetrating oil every morning for a few days before you go to do this job. Mine were pretty corroded but came off easily after a few days with the penetrating oil treatment. I then simply jacked the car up, removed the ball joint from the knuckle, then the alignment bolt. Its a pretty simple matter to wiggle it out the back side. There's plenty of room. You may want to use a mallet of some kind to give the end of the bolt a tap to get it moving once you remove the nut that holds it in place.

[98SSE]

Thanks for the replies. Ended up getting this done last night. It was pretty straight forward but I found it easier to lower the subframe (2 rear bolts) to get a little more access to the bolts. Definitely need replaced lol

[Roadrunner]

I just did this on the 03 last week and it was very easy.
Didn't have to angle them in and was even able to do it without taking off the wheels (just had to jack up one side at a time).
Years ago when I did the 00 I definitely had to drop the subframe to get them out.
Maybe it varies by car or GM made a slight change over the years.

[nos4blood70]

Was scared to do this myself but was also easily able to manage it without lowering the subframe.