Rear Suspension
The rear suspension is comprised of:- Drive Axle
- Leaf Springs
- Dual-Action Shock Absorbers
- Jounce Bumpers
Leaf Springs: The rear suspension system uses a multi-leaf springs and a solid drive axle. The forward end of the springs are mounted to the body rail hangers through rubber bushings. The rearward end of the springs are attached to the body by the use of shackles. The spring and shackles use rubber bushings. The bushing help to isolate road noise. The shackles allow the springs to change their length as the vehicle moves over various road conditions.
Shock Absorbers: Ride control is accomplished through the use of dual-action shock absorbers. The shocks dampen the jounce and rebound as the vehicle travels over various road conditions. The top of the shock absorbers are bolted to the body crossmember. The bottom of the shocks are bolted to the axle bracket.
Jounce Bumpers: The jounce bumpers are used to limit the spring and axle travel. They are bolted to the body rail above the axle.
CAUTION:
- A vehicle should always be loaded so the vehicle weight center-line is located immediately forward of the rear axle. Correct vehicle loading provides proper front tire-to-road contact. This results in maximum vehicle handling stability and safety. Incorrect vehicle weight distribution can cause excessive tire tread wear, spring fatigue or failure, and erratic steering.
- Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings (except stabilizer bar) should be tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. This will maintain vehicle ride comfort and prevent premature bushing wear.