Rear Suspension

Rear axle in unloaded position

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items required:

^ Engine/transmission jack V.A.G 1383 A
^ Tightening strap T10038
^ Wheel hub support T10149

All suspension component bolts with bonded rubber bushings must be tightened with the suspension in the curb weight position (unladen).

Bonded rubber bushings have a limited torsional range.

Before axle components with bonded rubber bushings are tightened, they have to be brought to a position which matches the position when the vehicle is being operated (curb weight position).

Otherwise the bonded rubber bushing will be distorted, resulting in reduced service life.

By raising the axle on one side with the engine/transmission jack V.A.G 1383 A and the support, this position can be simulated on the hoist.
^ Measure dimension - a - with a tape measure from the center of the wheel to the lower edge of the wheelhouse.





Measure - a - from lower edge of wheelhouse to center of wheel

The measurement must be taken in the curb weight position (unladen).

^ Make a note of the measurement. It will be needed for tightening the bolts/nuts.

Before the individual suspension is raised on one side, the vehicle must be secured to the lifting arms on the hoist using the straps T10038.

If the vehicle is not secured, there is a risk that it may slip off the hoist.
^ Turn wheel hub until one of the holes for the wheel bolts is at the 12 o'clock position.
^ Install wheel hub support T10149 with a wheel bolt.

The bolts may only be tightened if dimension - a - is attained between the wheel hub center and the lower edge of the wheel housing.





Measurement - a - measured
^ Raise the wheel bearing housing using engine/transmission jack until dimension - a - is reached.

CAUTION:
^ Do not raise or lower vehicle while engine/transmission jack is under vehicle.
^ Do not leave engine and transmission lift under the vehicle longer than necessary.

^ Tighten respective nuts/bolts.
^ Lower wheel bearing housing.
^ Move engine/transmission jack away from under vehicle.
^ Remove wheel hub support T10149.