7-2
Suspension
NOTE: Critical torque specifications are located
in Section 1.
The following suspension system components should be
inspected periodically to ensure proper operation.
A. Shock absorber rods bent, pitted, or damaged.
B. Rubber damper cracked, broken, or missing.
C. Shock absorber body damaged, punctured, or
leaking.
D. Shock absorber eyelets broken, bent, or cracked.
E. Shock absorber eyelet bushings worn, deterio-
rated, cracked, or missing.
F. Shock absorber spring broken or sagging.
G. Sway bar mountings tight and bushings secure.
Shock Absorbers
REMOVING
1. Secure the vehicle on a support stand to elevate the
wheels and to release load on the suspension.
2. Remove the two cap screws and nuts securing each
front shock absorber to the frame and upper A-arm.
Account for bushings and sleeves from each.
AF605D
3. Remove the two cap screws and nut securing each rear
shock absorber to the frame and lower A-arm.
Account for bushings and sleeves from each.
AF626D
4. Using a suitable spring compression stand, compress
the shock absorber spring, remove the retainer, and
remove the spring.
AF730D
CLEANING AND INSPECTING
NOTE: Whenever a part is worn excessively, cracked,
or damaged in any way, replacement is necessary.
1. Clean all shock absorber components in parts-clean-
ing solvent.
2. Inspect each shock rod for nicks, pits, rust, bends, and
oily residue.
3. Inspect all springs, spring retainers, shock rods,
sleeves, bushings, shock bodies, and eyelets for
cracks, leaks, and bends.
INSTALLING
1. Place the shock absorber spring over the shock
absorber, compress the spring, and install the retainer.
2. Place bushings and sleeves (where appropriate) into
shock eyelet; then install shocks with two cap screws
and nuts.
! WARNING
Make sure the vehicle is solidly supported on the
support stand to avoid injury.
CAUTION
Additional support stands are necessary to support
the rear axle when the shock absorbers are removed
or damage may occur.
! WARNING
Shock absorber springs are under high compression
loads. Do not attempt to remove springs without an ade-
quate spring compressor. Sever injury could result.
Manual
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