Suspension: Service and Repair

Rear Suspension





Special Tool(s)

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position on a hoist.
2. Remove the rear brake disc.
3. If the rear axle assembly is being removed, disconnect the brake lines and ABS rear wheel speed sensor wire bundle from the rear axle assembly.

Part 1 Of 2:

Part 2 Of 2:

Part 1 Of 3:

Part 2 Of 3:

Part 3 Of 3:

Part 1 Of 3:

Part 2 Of 3:

Part 3 Of 3:

4. Remove the parts in the order indicated in the following illustrations and tables.
5. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

Item 4: Wheel Stud Removal Note

1. Using a suitable press, remove the wheel stud from the wheel hub and bearing assembly.

Item 10: Spring Removal Note

1. CAUTION: The rear axle assembly must be supported to prevent damage to the vehicle. The rear axle U-channel must fit completely into the saddle of the jack stand to prevent damage to the rear axle.

Support the rear axle with a jack stand.





2. NOTE: The spring insulators may come out with the spring when the spring is removed.





Remove the spring from the vehicle while slowly lowering the axle using the jack stand.





Item 12: Trailing Arm Bolt Removal Note
1. If necessary, use a pry bar to remove the trailing arm and bushing from the body bracket.

Item 19: Axle Assembly Removal Note
1. If necessary, remove the jounce bumpers.





Item 20: Trailing Arm Bushing Removal Note
1. Using the special tools, remove the trailing arm bushing.





2. Using a suitable calibrated telescoping micrometer, measure the trailing arm bushing bore. If the measurement exceeds the specification, install a new rear axle assembly.





Item 20: Trailing Arm Bushing Installation Note
1. Using the special tools, install the trailing arm bushing.





Item 19: Axle Assembly Installation Note
1. CAUTION: The rear axle assembly must be supported to prevent damage to the vehicle. The rear axle U-channel must fit completely into the saddle of the jack stand to prevent damage to the rear axle.

Support the rear axle with a jack stand.





Item 10: Spring Installation Note
1. If removed, position the spring insulator(s) on the spring.





Item 4: Wheel Stud Installation Note
1. Using a suitable press, install a new wheel stud.