Section 1620 (Rear Suspension - 2500 Hd): Description
The rear suspension system is a coil spring (or air suspension spring if equipped) system, while the 3500 cab chassis series is a leaf spring system. The suspension systems are comprised of:
- Shock Absorbers (5)
- Stabilizer Bar (8)
- Stabilizer links (1)
- Coil Springs (or air suspension spring if equipped) (2)
- Upper Control Arms (above lower control arms, not shown)
- Lower Control Arms (7)
- Track Bar (4)
- Leaf Springs (2500 and 3500 series with air suspension, 3500 cab chassis, not shown)
- Auxiliary Leaf Spring (3500 series cab chassis, not shown)
- Auxiliary Spring Bumpers (3500 series cab chassis, not shown)
- Leaf Spring Eye Bushings (2500 and 3500 series with air suspension, 3500 cab chassis, not shown)
- Leaf Spring Tip Inserts (2500 and 3500 series with air suspension, 3500 cab chassis, not shown)
Standard suspension systems have a rear coil spring. If equipped with air suspension an air suspension spring replaces the conventional rear coil spring and is an air spring without any metal coil at all. Any time a new or compressed air spring is installed, a short fill routine must be preformed with a scan tool, then the air bag must be inspected for proper alignment. Only after this check can a complete fill routine be done.
A vehicle should always be loaded so the vehicle weight center-line is located immediately forward of the rear axle. Correct vehicle loading provides proper front tire-to-road contact. This results in maximum vehicle handling stability and safety. Incorrect vehicle weight distribution can cause excessive tire tread wear, spring fatigue or failure, and erratic steering.
Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings (except stabilizer bar) should be tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.