Rear Suspension Assembly (Colt Vista 4WD): Installation

1. Install new clip on inner end of drive axle. Coat seal lip with grease before installing drive axle. Carefully install drive axle to prevent damaging oil seal.
2. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten bolts to specification. See appropriate TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table at end of article. Tighten inner arm-to-crossmember bolt and outer arm bushing retaining bolts to specification with vehicle at normal operating height and no load.
3. Bleed brake system. Adjust parking brake. Check vehicle height and wheel alignment. Refer to the appropriate article in the WHEEL ALIGNMENT section. If a difference exists between left and right body heights, torsion bar may be improperly positioned.
4. Support inner arm with a jack. Remove inner and outer arm bolts. Check position of outer arm. See Fig 1. Distance should be 4.00-4.11" (101.5-104.5 mm). If distance is incorrect, reposition torsion bar.
5. To determine proper torsion bar position, construct a torsion bar plate. See Fig 2. Drill holes at proper location. Bend plate at a 90-degree angle, 3.94" (100.0 mm) from left edge.
6. Mark lines on plate at proper distance measured from top of plate. See Fig 2. Install plate using rear insulator bolt hole of crossmember bracket. See Fig 1.
7. Torsion bar position is correct when marking lines on plate are at center of bolt hole for toe-in adjustment. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Checking Outer Arm Position

Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.

Fig 2: Constructing Torsion Bar Plate

Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.

Fig 3: Installing Torsion Bar Plate

Courtesy of CHRYSLER MOTORS.