Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Rear Suspension




Rear Suspension

NOTE: If the Watts link pivot stud or nut is loosened, a new Watts link pivot stud and nut service kit must be installed.

The rear suspension consists of the following components:

- Lateral arms
- Lower arms
- Shock absorbers
- Springs
- Stabilizer bar, links and bushings
- Upper arms
- Watts link pivot
- Wheel studs

The rear suspension comprises 4 suspension arms, 2 shock absorbers, 2 springs, a stabilizer bar and a Watts link assembly.

The rear suspension arms limit the forward and rearward movement of the rear axle in relation to the frame. Each rear spring is mounted to an upper seat integral with the frame and a lower seat welded to the rear axle housing. To reduce noise and vibration, a rubber isolator is placed between the axle and the spring and another between the spring and frame.

The Watts link assembly is connected between the rear axle differential housing and the frame. The Watts link assembly controls the side-to-side sway of the vehicle.

The rear stabilizer bar and links assembly aids in the control of the suspension travel and restricts body roll.

The rear shock absorbers provide motion and force damping of the rear suspension during suspension travel, jounce and rebound.