clunking noise and body cushions

[uncle-vinny]

If you have a clunking noise on a 1988 Astro when you hit a speed bump, pothole, turn or brake it may be your body cushions. I had two cushions completely rotted and two more sort of rotted and rusted. I suspect the clunking was the frame and body moving. I replaced all six uppers, lowers, bolts and retainers. I could not find after market parts. I bought GM parts. They are discontinued at most dealers and even the part numbers are hard to find. I was able to order them from http://www.1stchevyparts.com. Some of the part numbers changed from the originals. If anyone needs this info here is the complete list. The cushions are referred to as 1, 2 and 3 and there is two of everything. One set is on the passenger side and the other on the driver’s side. 1 is in the front of the van, 2 is in the middle and 3 is all the way at the end of the frame towards the rear of the van. There are also an upper and lower cushion in each location as well as a bolt and retainer (big bevel washer). There are six locations altogether each consisting of a bolt, retainer, lower cushion and upper cushion.

#1 upper is 15601755
#2 upper is 15595052
#3 upper is 15183802

#1, #2, #3 lower is15595054

#1, #3 retainers are 15688319
# retainer is 15590772

#1, #3 bolts are 15677731
#2 bolt is 11519584

Replacement involves separating the frame from the body in order to remove the upper cushions. Jack on the frame, put jack stands on the body just behind #3. Take the bolts out, lower the frame a few inches. Install upper cushions, jack the frame back up. Torque #1 and #3 to 66ftlbs, torque #2 to 114ftlbs. Do one side at a time.

It cost me $200 including shipping. I found two #2 upper cushions on ebay for $15. The rest I got from http://www.1stchevyparts.com. No more clunking noise. I hope this helps someone.

[lockdoc]

Thanks. It's good to have the part #'s on hand. I've had the part #'s before but lost them.

[astrozam]

Thanks for the part #'s UV, as these vans get older that info will be even more useful to members

[mdmead]

Great info! I wonder if there is a suitable sub for these mounts? Another application that would work. My concern is the supply of these is dwindling....

[kings-x59]

Same for me. I checked Rockauto, they only have the rear subframe bushing for my year model and the application listing is specific to the astros and safaris.

[Cobra]

funny i havea cluck under those same conditions haven't checked body mounts did notice this weekend that my control arm bushings are soft and cracked. i'll have to look into those body cushions good info