A. Inspect Rear Crossmember Lateral Link Plate Welds

1. Raise vehicle on a drive-on hoist.

NOTE:
A drive-on hoist eliminates the need for lateral link removal and rear wheel alignment.

2. Inspect the lateral link plates to determine the type of weld used to attach the plates to the crossmember.

^ If the lateral link plates are attached with eight (8) spot welds (4 on each side of the lateral link bolt) no further action is required. Return the vehicle to the customer.





^ If the lateral link plates are welded to the crossmember by arc weld at the two slots as shown in Figure 1, proceed to Step 3.

3. A. Inspect the left and right rear crossmember front and rear lateral link plates (4 plates total) for cracking of the two welds in each plate (Figure 1).

B. Grasp the lateral links and attempt to move them to see if any of the four lateral link plates are loose.

C. Grasp the outer diameter of the tire and attempt to move it from side-to-side. If any tire movement is noted verify that the movement is due to a loose lateral link plate.

4. If ANY of the lateral link plates have broken loose from the crossmember, a lateral link plate alignment fixture (Tool No. 8525) must be used to realign the lateral link plates prior to riveting. Contact the STAR Center at 1-800-850-STAR and follow the voice mail prompts to make arrangements for use of the fixture. Make sure you have the Vehicle Identification Number; your dealer code; dealer name and mailing address; and contact name available.

5. Continue with Section B -- Rivet Rear Crossmember Lateral Link Plates.