Suspension Spring ( Coil / Leaf ): Service and Repair

REMOVAL PROCEDURE

Caution: When removing the rear springs, do not use a twin-post type hoist The swing arch tendency of the rear axle assembly when certain fasteners are removed may cause it to slip from the hoist which may cause personal injury.

Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the spring coating when handling the rear suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

Important: When reassembling the rear axle components, install the bolts attaching the axle to the supports from the inboard to the outboard side of the chassis. Align the rear spring paint stripe down, rearward and centered with the rear shock absorber.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
2. Remove the right and left brake line bracket attaching screws from the control arms. Allow the brake line to hang freely.
3. Support the rear axle.
4. Remove the right and left shock absorber lower attaching bolts. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement.
5. Remove the rear axle tie rod. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement.

Notice:
^ Do not suspend the rear axle by the brake hoses. Damage to the brake hoses may result.
^ Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the spring coating when handling the rear suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

6. Lower the rear axle and remove the springs (4) and the insulators (5).

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Position the springs (4) and the insulators (5) in their seats and raise the rear axle.

Notice: Care should be taken to avoid chipping or scratching the spring coating when handling the rear suspension coil spring. Damage to the coating can cause premature failure.

2. Position the rear spring so that the paint stripe (6) is facing rearward and centered to the shock absorber.
3. Install the rear axle tie rod. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement.
4. Install the right and left shock absorber to the rear axle. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement.
5. Remove the rear axle supports.
6. Install the brake line brackets to the frame.
7. Lower the vehicle.