Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
"Y" Body (Rear)
1998 Buick RivieraSECTION "Y" Body (Rear)
NOTE:
When taking measurements, the real time damping system must be operative during procedure. If ride height adjustment is necessary, the opposite trim height will be affected. Recheck vehicles ride height after each adjustment.
- Lift rear bumper 1.5" (38 mm) and let settle. Repeat 2 more times. Push rear bumper down 1.5" (38 mm) and let settle. Repeat 2 more times. Measure from center of rear axle to lower edge of rocker panel (dimension "B") to locate dimension "K" measuring point. Measure dimension "K" from bottom of rocker panel to floor. See Figure. See RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS ("Y" BODY) table. If rear ride height is not within specification, go to step 3.
- Using Trim Height Measurement Gauge (J42854), measure left and right side dimension "D" between lowest point of ball joint and center of lower control arm mounting bolt. See Figure. See RIDE HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS ("Y" BODY) table. If ride height is not within specification, go to next step.
- If ride height adjustment is necessary, adjust dimension "D" by removing spring bolt retainers and turning the spring adjuster bolt. One complete turn of adjuster bolt equals about 0.08" (2 mm). Ensure maximum difference between rear spring stud height does not exceed 0.196" (5 mm). See Figure. Recheck ride height. Measure and adjust front spring adjuster bolt gaps. Rear spring stud height should be between 0.866-1.811 (22-46 mm). Install retainers to bolts.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.