Tension Strut Cradle Bushing

TENSION STRUT CRADLE BUSHING

OVERVIEW
To remove tension strut to cradle bushings from vehicle for replacement, the tension strut and lower control arm first MUST be removed as an assembly from the vehicle.

REMOVAL
1. Remove lower control arm and tension strut as an assembly from the vehicle.






2. Remove the tension strut to cradle isolator bushing from the tension strut. Install replacement isolator bushing on tension strut until it is seated against retaining washer.






3. Remove the tension strut to cradle isolator bushing from the cradle assembly. Install replacement tension strut to cradle isolator bushing into cradle, until squarely seated against cradle assembly.

INSTALLATION
1. Install lower control arm and tension strut as an assembly back on the vehicle.






2. Install washer on end of tension strut. Install a NEW tension strut to cradle bracket nut, on tension strut.






3. Tighten the tension strut to cradle bracket retaining nut to a torque of 130 Nm (95 ft. lbs.). When torquing tension strut nut, keep tension strut from turning by holding tension strut at flat using an open end wrench.
4. Install the wheel and tire assembly.
5. Tighten the wheel mounting stud nuts in proper sequence until all nuts are torqued to half specification. Then repeat the tightening sequence to the full specified torque of 129 Nm (95 ft. lbs.).






6. Lower the vehicle to the ground so the suspension is supporting the full weight of the vehicle (control arm at design height). Tighten the lower control arm pivot bushing attaching bolt to a torque of 142 Nm (105 ft. lbs.).