Suspension: Service and Repair

Fig. 2 Exploded View Of Conventional Rear Suspension Assembly:

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. Disconnect rear drive system as follows:

Fig. 3 Driveshaft Spring Pin Removal:

a. Using a drift and hammer, drive out driveshaft spring pins, Fig. 3.

Fig. 4 Outer Double Offset Joint Removal:

b. Remove outer driveshaft DOJ from rear axle spindle by pushing inside of DOJ toward rear differential and pushing rear brake drum downward, Fig. 4. 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 transaxle, oil will flow from transaxle. Prepare a suitable cap to insert into the transaxle opening and a container to catch the escaping oil.
f. Set container at rear end of transaxle, and slowly remove propeller shaft.
g. Insert cap into transaxle 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 transaxle jack under the differential.
k. Remove the four differential to body retaining bolts and remove differential.
6. Remove the exhaust pipe and muffler assembly separately.
7. Remove the exhaust covers.
8. Disconnect brake hose and pipe at inner arm side bracket by loosening flare nut.
8. Perform the same procedure on the opposite side.
10. Position suitable jack under center of rear crossmember.

Fig. 5 Rear Suspension Crossmember Mounting Bolts:

11. Remove retaining bolts, Fig. 5, 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 tightening specifications.