Trailing Link: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Dodge Stratus and 2005 Chrysler Sebring. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise vehicle on jackstands or centered on a frame contact type hoist. (Refer to LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/HOISTING - STANDARD PROCEDURE) .
Remove rear wheel and tire assembly from the vehicle.

At the knuckle, remove the nut, bushing retainer and outer trailing link bushing from the trailing link. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Trailing Link To Knuckle Attachment

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - BUSHING

2 - NUT

3 - BUSHING RETAINER

4 - KNUCKLE

5 - BUSHING

6 - BUSHING RETAINER

7 - TRAILING LINK

Remove the 4 bolts attaching the trailing link hanger bracket to the floor pan and frame rail. See Fig 2.

Fig 2: Trailing Link Hanger Bracket Attachment To Vehicle
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - TRAILING LINK

2 - TRAILING LINK HANGER BRACKET
Remove the trailing link and mounting bracket as an assembly from the vehicle.
CAUTION: The installation position of the bushings and retainers on the trailing link is important. When separating the trailing link from the hanger bracket, note the position and orientation on the bushings and retainers to ensure they are re-installed correctly.
Separate the trailing link from the hanger bracket. To separate trailing link from hanger bracket, use a large adjustable wrench on flat of trailing link to turn link while holding nut stationary. See Fig 3.

Fig 3: Separating Trailing Link From Hanger Bracket

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - HANGER BRACKET

2 - SPACER

3 - BUSHING

4 - RETAINER

5 - TRAILING LINK

6 - ADJUSTABLE WRENCH

7 - WRENCH