Torsion Bar: Service and Repair

Torsion Bar













Removal

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. New parts must be installed with the same part number or an equivalent part if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Jacking and Lifting Service and Repair.

2. Remove the torsion bar cover plate bolts and the torsion bar cover plate.

3. NOTE: Before relieving the torsion bar tension, measure and record the measurement of the torsion bar adjustment bolt. This measurement will be used as the preset depth for the new torsion bar adjustment bolt during installation.

Make preliminary adjustment references.

4. Relieve the torsion bar tension.

1. Position the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer and Adapter.

2. Tighten the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer until the torsion bar adjuster lifts off the adjustment bolt.





5. NOTICE: The torsion bar adjustment bolt is coated with dry adhesive and must be replaced if it is backed off or removed. Failure to do so may cause the adjustment bolt to loosen during operation and cause a loss of vehicle alignment.

Remove and discard the torsion bar adjustment bolt and support nut.





6. Loosen the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer and Adapter until the tension is removed from the torsion bar.





7. Remove the torsion bar in the following sequence.

1. Mark the torsion bar and the adjuster for correct installation.

2. Remove the torsion bar insulator plate.

3. Grasp the torsion bar and pull it free from the lower arm.





Installation

1. Position the torsion bar into lower arm.





2. Install the torsion bar adjuster in the following sequence.

1. Align the marks on the torsion bar and the torsion bar adjuster, then install the torsion bar adjuster.

2. Position the torsion bar insulator plate.





3. NOTICE: The torsion bar adjustment bolt is coated with dry adhesive and must be replaced if it is backed off or removed. Failure to do so may cause the adjustment bolt to loosen during operation and cause a loss of vehicle alignment.

Preload the torsion bar in the following sequence.

1. Install the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer and Adapter.

2. Tighten the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer until the new adjustment bolt and nut can be installed.

3. Turn the adjustment bolt until the preliminary adjustment measurement (recorded length of the old adjustment bolt) is reached.





4. Remove the Torsion Bar Remover/Installer and Adapter.

5. Install the torsion bar cover plate and 4 cover plate bolts.
- Tighten to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft).

6. Adjust the ride height. For additional information, refer to Suspension System - General Information Ride Height Measurement.

7. Check and if necessary, align the front end. For additional information, refer to Suspension System - General Information Alignment.