Suspension - Rear Lateral Link Noise

NUMBER
05-27-90


DATE
12-14-90



APPLICABILITY
ALL LEGACY MODELS MANUFACTURED BEFORE
THE FOLLOWING VINS:
SEDAN 600541
STATION WAGON 900181

NOTE:
A MODIFIED BUSHING HAS BEEN INCORPORATED IN PRODUCTION AS OF JUNE 1990 STARTING WITH THE ABOVE LISTED VINs

SUBJECT:
REAR LATERAL LINK NOISE



If you encounter a customer complaint of a squeaking sound while going over bumps or when the rear of the vehicle is moving up and down, the inner bushing of the rear lateral link may be at fault.





A visual inspection may show that the inner bushing is offset in the rear lateral link arm and the arm is rubbing against the cross member. This bushing is to be replaced with a new one P/N 20251AA021, 4WD or P/N 20251AA031, 2WD.



To remove the rear lateral link follow the instructions in the 1990 Legacy Service Manual Section 4-1, Page 38.

NOTE:
The trailing arm and DOJ do not necessarily have to be removed for this procedure.

1. Using tool # 927820000 Base Tube and suitable push rod tool # 899864100, wheel stud, or equivalent, place the lateral link in a press or vise and remove the old bushing.

NOTE:
The push pressure should not exceed approximately 1 ton.

2. Make sure that the lateral link is free of burrs or any deformities and the inner surface is clean.

3. Apply lubricant to the internal surface of lateral link and the outer surface of the new bushing. Sunper # 107 from Nippon Sun Petroleum Corp. or Master Rubber Lubricant from Master Automotive Chemical, Memphis, TN or equivalent, may be used. Commonly found tire mounting lubricant is ideal for this purpose.

NOTE:
The lubricant used must be compatible with rubber or bushing deterioration will result.



4. With the lateral link positioned simulating its installed position, the bushing should be installed from the front side of the lateral link. Press the new bushing into the lateral link using the base tube and a suitable push rod.

For 4WD:





The bushing is to be pressed in so that the protruding portion (edge) is equal on both sides. See diagram for 4WD.



For 2WD:





The bushing is to be pressed in so that the offset (longer side) is towards the front of the vehicle. See diagram for 2WD.



On all new installed bushings, insure that the rubber supporting edges are protruding from both ends of the lateral link.

Assemble in reverse order of disassembly making sure that the cam adjusting bolts and the offset washers are properly seated.

All suspension components should be tightened in a loaded condition with the wheels on the ground supporting the weight of the vehicle.

An alignment is mandatory after installation of the new bushings.





This operation can be claimed under warranty.