Lower

NOTE:
^ Refer to the rear suspension illustration in Suspension Component Locations.

REMOVAL

NOTE: If both rear suspension arm and bushings and both rear suspension lower arms are to be removed at the same time remove both rear springs.

1. Mark rear suspension shock absorber relative to protective sleeve with the vehicle in a static, level ground condition.
2. Remove rear stabilizer bar.
3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and place jackstands under the rear axle assembly.
4. Lower the hoist until the shock absorbers are fully extended to relieve rear spring pressure.
5. Support rear axle assembly under differential pinion nose as well as under rear axle assembly.
6. Remove and discard the lower arm pivot bolt and nut from the axle bracket. Then disengage the rear suspension lower arm from the bracket.
7. Remove and discard the pivot bolt and nut from the frame bracket and remove the rear suspension lower arm.

INSTALLATION

NOTE:
^ To improve rear axle noise and vibration concerns, the rear suspension lower arm bolts should be tightened with rear suspension at curb height.
^ The rear suspension lower arms are interchangeable side-to-side.

1. Position the rear suspension lower arm in the bracket on the frame side rail. Install a new pivot bolt and new nut. Insert the bolt so nut faces outboard. Do not tighten the nut at this time.
2. Position the rear suspension lower arm to the axle bracket and install a new bolt and new nut. Do not tighten the nut at this time.
3. Raise the rear axle assembly to position that compresses shock absorbers to previously established alignment marks.
4. Tighten the rear suspension lower arm-to-axle pivot bolt to 128-172 Nm (95-126 ft. lbs.) and the rear suspension lower arm-to-frame pivot bolt to 128-172 Nm (95-126 ft. lbs.).
5. Install rear stabilizer bar.
6. Remove jackstands and lower vehicle.