Suspension - Upper Link Inspection Procedure

Classification:
FA91-001

Reference:
NTB91-004

Date:
March 14, 1991

INSPECTION OF MULTI-LINK FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER LINK

APPLIED VEHICLE(S):
1990-91 300ZX (Z32)

SERVICE INFORMATION

Use the following procedure when checking and measuring the free play of the multi-link front suspension upper link.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

When the free play of the multi-link front suspension upper link exceeds specifications, check and correct the free play using procedures covered in this bulletin.

Tools and Equipment Required

^ Dial gauge

^ Magnet stand

^ Spring scale or push-pull gauge [approx. 196 N (20 kg., 44 lb)]

^ Lever





1. Raise the front of the vehicle.

When using a garage jack, place a rigid rack under the side member to support the weight of the vehicle.

2. Set the steering wheel in the straight-forward direction and lock it using the key lock.





3. Remove the front wheels.





Allowable Free-play Range
Measure the upper link free play on both the axle and body sides. (Refer to the following table for the specified free play.) If the free play exceeds specifications, replace the upper link assembly

Measurement Procedures

Free play (on axle side)

1. Install the dial gauge.

a. Install the magnet stand on the 3rd link.

b. Set the dial gauge in position.





Set the dial gauge spindle in contact with the flat surface of the 3rd upper link at 140 mm (5.51 in) measured directly from the center of the retaining bolt on the 3rd link side. (Reset the dial gauge.)





2. Install the lever

Insert the lever [30 mm (1.18 in) outside dia., 350 mm (13.78 in) long, approx.] between the lower end of the 3rd link and the kingpin location

Make sure the lever does not interfere with the splash guard, brake hoses, etc., when set in position.





Free play in direction "A"
Attach the spring scale to the tip of the lever. Pull the spring scale with a force of 147 to 196 N (15 to 20 kg, 33 to 44 lb) and then read the dial gauge indication.





Free Play in direction "B"
With the dial gauge held in position, invert the lever. Attach the spring scale to the time of the lever. Pull the spring scale with a force of 147 to 196(15 to 20kg, 33to 44 lb) and then read the dial gauge indication.

Free play = (Gauge pointer deflection in direction "A") +
(Gauge pointer deflection in direction "B")

Allowable tree play range: 5.0 mm (0.197 in), max.

Free play (on body side)

1. Install the dial gauge.





a. Install the magnet stand on the hoodledge wheelhouse side.

b. Set the dial gauge in position. Set the dial gauge spindle in contact with the flat surface of the upper link at 140 mm (5.51 in) measured directly from the center of the retaining bolt on the bracket side. (Reset the dial gauge.)

2. Follow the same procedures for setting the lever and measuring the free play as those outlined under "Free play (on axle side)" above.

Allowable free play range: 5.0 mm (0.197 in), max.

Because this is a diagnostic procedure, the Flat rate times for this procedure are contained in the Repair Labor Operation. This procedure cannot be claimed alone.