How to Change the Air Shocks in a 1999 DeVille

A 199 Cadillac DeVille is one of the few passenger cars to use an air suspension system, and this includes air shock absorbers on its rear wheels. With the exception of an extra detail or two, changing an air shock is much like changing any other shock absorber. You must change both of the air shocks on the car together.

Instructions

Removal

1

Raise the rear end of the car,support it on jack stands and remove the rear wheels using either the car's or an aftermarket tire iron. It will help to block the front wheels with wheel chocks.

2

Disconnect the air line from the shock absorber--remove its clip (it may take pliers) and pull the line off of its fitting. Disconnect the electrical connector for the road-steering suspension if the car is equipped with it.

3

Raise a floor jack to support the weight of the control arm at the arm's outer end.

4

Remove the nut and bolt connecting the shock absorber to the control arm using a wrench. Remove the upper mounting nut, retainer and insulator and remove the shock absorber.

Installation

5

Install the shock absorber and tighten the upper mounting nut (with its retainer and insulator) to 55 foot-pounds.

6

Connect the shock absorber to the lower control arm and tighten the nut and bolt to 75 foot-pounds.

7

Reconnect the air line to the shock absorber with its clip and reconnect the electrical connector for the road-sensing suspension if needed.

8

Lower and remove the floor jack under the lower control arm.

9

Turn the car's ignition switch/lock cylinder to the On position. Wait 45 seconds for the Electronic Level Control to pressurize.

10

Reconnect the rear wheels and lower the car off the jack stands after changing the shocks for both wheels.