Suspension: Service and Repair

Conventional Suspension

Fig. 2 Exploded View Of Conventional Rear Suspension Assembly:

Fig. 12 Driveshaft Spring Pin Removal:

Fig. 13 Outer Double Offset Joint Removal:

Refer to Fig. 2 when performing the following procedure.
1. Remove the two upper shock absorber retaining bolts. Lift vehicle slightly and use an extension to facilitate upper shock absorber bolts removal.
2. Raise and support vehicle.
3. Remove rear wheels.
4. On 4WD models, disconnect rear drive system as follows:
a. Using a drift and hammer, drive out driveshaft spring pins, Fig. 12.
b. Remove outer driveshaft DOJ from rear axle spindle by pushing inside of DOJ toward rear differential and pushing rear brake drum downward, Fig. 13. DOJ designates double offset joint.
c. Remove inner end of driveshaft.
d. Perform same procedure as previously described on opposite driveshaft.
e. Remove the four propeller shaft to rear differential retaining bolts. When propeller shaft is removed from transmission, oil will flow from transmission. Prepare a suitable cap to insert into the transmission opening and a container to catch the escaping oil.
f. Set container at rear end of transmission, and slowly remove propeller shaft.
g. Insert cap into transmission opening.
h. Support rear differential with suitable jack. Remove differential and installation bracket as an assembly from body.
i. Remove the differential bracket to body locking retaining nuts.
j. Position a suitable transmission jack under the differential.
k. Remove the four differential to body retaining bolts and remove differential.
5. On all except 4WD, remove the exhaust manifold and exhaust pipe retaining bolts, and then the muffler and exhaust pipe.
6. On 4WD models, remove the exhaust pipe and muffler assembly separately.
7. On all models, remove the exhaust covers.
8. Disconnect brake hose and pipe at inner arm side bracket by loosening flare nut.
9. Perform the same procedure on the opposite side.
10. Position suitable jack under center of rear crossmember.

Fig. 14 Rear Suspension Crossmember Mounting Bolts:

11. Remove retaining bolts, Fig. 14, from both ends of crossmember.
12. Slowly lower jack and withdraw suspension assembly from under vehicle.
13. Reverse procedure to install. Refer to Fig. 2 for torque values.

Pneumatic Suspension

Fig. 3 Exploded View Of Pneumatic Suspension System Components:

Fig. 4 Air Line Removal & Installation:

Removal and installation procedures for models with pneumatic suspension are basically similar to those for models with conventional suspension. When removing pneumatic suspension assembly or individual components, refer to Figs. 2 and 3 for component identification, and observe the following precautions:
1. Before disassembling suspension components ensure ignition switch is turned off and battery ground cable is disconnected.
2. Disconnect air lines using air pipe removal tool as shown in Fig. 4. Use caution not to damage fittings or O-ring sealing surfaces.
3. Ensure air pressure is discharged before removing air spring mounting fasteners.
4. Always use new O-rings, lightly lubricated with multi-purpose grease, when connecting air lines or fittings.
5. During installation, ensure wiring harnesses and air lines are properly aligned and secured in brackets and retaining straps.
6. Refer to Figs. 2 and 3 for torque values.