Rear Stabilizer Bar: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Lexus IS F. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

INSPECT REAR STABILIZER LINK ASSEMBLY
1. Inspect the ball joint (rear stabilizer bar side).
  1. Secure the rear stabilizer link assembly between aluminum plates in a vise.
    
    Fig 1: Inspecting Ball Joint Turning Torque
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    
    NOTE: Do not overtighten the vise.
  2. Temporarily install the nut, and flip the ball joint stud back and forth 5 times as shown in the illustration.
  3. Use a torque wrench to turn the nut continuously at a rate of 3 to 5 seconds per turn. Take the torque reading on the 5th turn.
    Torque: Turning torque
    
    0.05 to 1.96 N*m (0.51 to 19 kgf*cm, 0.45 to 17 in.*lbf)
    
    If the reading is not within the specified range, replace the rear stabilizer link assembly with a new one.
2. Inspect the ball joint (rear No. 2 suspension arm assembly side).
  1. Secure the rear stabilizer link assembly between aluminum plates in a vise.
    NOTE: Do not overtighten the vise.
    
    Fig 2: Inspecting Ball Joint Turning Torque
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. Temporarily install the nut and bolt, and flip the ball joint stud back and forth 5 times as shown in the illustration
  3. Use a torque wrench to turn the nut continuously at a rate of 3 to 5 seconds per turn. Take the torque reading on the 5th turn.
    Torque: Turning torque
    
    2.45 N*m (24 kgf*cm, 21 in.*lbf) or less
    
    If the reading is not within the specified range, replace the rear stabilizer link assembly with a new one.
3. Check the dust boots for cracks or grease leaks.