How to Convert a 2007-2011 GM Full Size SUV from Z55 Electronic Suspension to Standard Suspension Using Conversion Kit

This guide will show you how to convert your 2007-2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL and Cadillac Escalade from an electronic suspension to a standard non electronic suspension. This guide covers Arnott conversion kits for all 2007-2011 full size GM SUVs with the Z55 electronic suspension. If you are unsure which suspension your SUV has, click here for a guide to decoding your GM truck RPO codes.

This guide covers installation of the C-3184 Z55 Electronic Conversion Kit for the 2007-2014 Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Avalanche, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade and the C-3185 Z55 Electronic Conversion Kit for the long wheelbase 2007-2014 Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL.

Step 1: Disconnect battery - this prevents the possibility of an electrical short.

Step 2: Disconnect air compressor fuse. Fuse box is located inside engine compartment. Locate the air compressor fuse using your vehicle's owner's manual and remove fuse.

Step 3: Safely jack up and support vehicle according to GM's instructions in the owner's manual.

Step 4: Remove wheel

Step 5: Disconnect shock sensor connector at the top of shock disconnect air line by turning clip 90 degrees.

Step 6: Remove the shock absorber. If upper shock absorber mounting bolts are difficult to remove, you may need to use a floor jack to relieve the pressure on the mounts.

Step 7: Remove your GM SUV's Sway Bar, Height Sensor and Springs. Start by disconnecting the brake sensor. Unbolt ride height sensor and be careful not to damage it. The brake line is bolted to the rear differential and needs to be removed. Now you can remove the sway bar and spring normally.

Step 8: Install coil spring. Make sure that you install the spring in the correct orientation. Reconnect sway bar and shock.

Step 9: Tighten shock absorber bolts. Reconnect brake line on differential. Reconnect ride height sensor and brake sensor.

Electronic Bypass Module Installation

The suspension control module is located in the rear of long wheel base (Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Avalanche, Cadillac Escalade ESV & EXT and GMC Yukon XL) Z55-Equipped GM SUVs above the spare tire. There is a clip holding the wire harness to the vehicle. Remove this clip so that the wiring harness can be easily accessed.

The suspension control module on short wheelbase (Chevrolet Tahoe, Cadillac Escalade and GMC Yukon) Z55-Equipped SUVs is located in the rear cargo area on the passenger side.

Full instructions on installing Electronic Bypass Module is included with the conversion kit

This guide is based on information provided by Arnott and is not intended to give a complete explanation of all steps required. These tips are designed to make installation of a Z55 conversion kit easier, and are not a substitute for mechanical knowledge and common sense. Installation of a Z55 suspension conversion kit should only be undertaken by an experienced and qualified mechanic. Removal of a coil spring is potentially very dangerous.