Rear Suspension

REMOVAL PROCEDURE
^ Tools Required:
- J 23028-01 Rear Coil Spring Remover and Installer
- J 34505 Ball Joint Separator

1. Remove the adjustment link retaining nut (1) and the link from the control arm (6).
2. Remove the spring. Refer to COIL SPRING REPLACEMENT.
3. Remove the cotter pin (5) and the slotted hex nut (4) from the ball joint. Turn the nut over and install the nut with the flat portion facing upward. Do not tighten the nut.

NOTICE: Use only the recommended tools for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. Failure to use the recommended tools may cause damage to the ball joint and seal.

4. Using the J 34505, separate the knuckle (3) from the ball stud. Remove the slotted hex nut (4).
5. Remove the control arm (6).

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Position the control arm ball joint stud (6) in the knuckle boss (3).

NOTICE: Always use the correct fastener in the proper location. When you replace a fastener, use ONLY the exact part number for that application. The manufacturer will call out those fasteners that require a replacement after removal. The manufacturer will also call out the fasteners that require thread lockers or thread sealant. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, do not use supplemental coatings (paints, greases, or other corrosion inhibitors) on threaded fasteners or fastener joint interfaces. Generally, such coatings adversely affect the fastener torque and joint clamping force, and may damage the fastener. When you install fasteners, use the correct tightening sequence and specifications. Following these instructions can help you avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Install a new slotted hex nut (4).

Tighten
2.1. Tighten the nut to 10 Nm (88 inch lbs.).
2.2. Tighten the nut an additional four flats; torque should be 55 Nm (40 ft. lbs.) minimum. It may be necessary to partially load the joint to keep the ball stud from rotating while the nut is being tightened.
2.3. Tighten the nut up to one more flat to align the slot with the cotter pin hole.

3. Install the cotter pin (5).
4. Install the spring. Refer to COIL SPRING REPLACEMENT.
5. Connect the adjustment link to the control arm (6) with the retaining nut (1).

Tighten
Tighten the link retaining nut to 85 Nm (83 ft. lbs.).

Important: The control arm nuts (1) should be tightened with the vehicle unsupported and resting on its wheels at the normal trim height. Failure to follow this procedure may adversely affect the ride and handling of the vehicle.

Tighten
^ Tighten the control arm nuts (1) to 115 Nm (85 ft. lbs.). Optional torque: Tighten the control arm-bolts (2) to 182 Nm (134 ft. lbs.).
^ Tighten the stabilizer shaft link bolt to 17 Nm (13 ft. lbs.).

6. Lubricate the ball joint and the adjustment link.