Rear Stabilizer Control Link Inspection

1. Remove the wheels and tires. (See WHEEL AND TIRE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION .)
2. Remove the rear stabilizer control link. (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (2WD) .) (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (AWD) .)
3. Inspect the rear stabilizer control link for bends or damage.
   • If there is any malfunction, replace the rear stabilizer control link. (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (2WD) .) (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (AWD) .)
4. Rotate the rear stabilizer control link ball joint stud 10 times and shake it side to side 10 times.
5. Install a hexagonal wrench to the rear stabilizer control link ball joint stud, and measure the starting torque of the rear stabilizer control link ball joint using a torque wrench.

Fig 1: Measuring Starting Torque Of Rear Stabilizer Control Link Ball Joint Using Torque Wrench

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

Rear stabilizer control link ball joint starting torque

0.8-3.5 N.m {8.2-35 kgf.cm, 7.1-30 in.lbf} 

• If not within the specification, replace the rear stabilizer control link. (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (2WD) .) (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (AWD) .)
• Even when within the specification, if there is excessive play in the rear stabilizer control link ball joint, replace the rear stabilizer control link. (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (2WD) .) (See REAR STABILIZER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION (AWD) .)