Front Suspension

DESCRIPTION - FRONT SUSPENSION








This vehicle has a gas pressurized MacPherson strut type front suspension design.

The front suspension includes the following components:
^ Hub
^ Bearing
^ Lower control arm
^ Stabilizer bar
^ Steering knuckle
^ Strut assembly

For more information on the description and operation of an individual component, refer to the applicable component.

OPERATION - FRONT SUSPENSION
The front suspension allows each front wheel on a vehicle to adapt to different road surfaces and conditions without greatly affecting the opposite wheel and the ability to control the vehicle. Each side of the front suspension is allowed to pivot so the vehicle can be steered in the direction preferred.

When a vehicle strikes a bump, the force is transferred through the hub, bearing, and knuckle, into the strut assembly to absorb the force and dampen it. During steering maneuvers, the strut assembly (through a pivot bearing in the upper strut mount) and steering knuckle (through the lower ball joint mounted on the lower control arm) turn as an assembly.

WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE STRUT SHAFT NUT WHILE STRUT ASSEMBLY IS INSTALLED IN VEHICLE, OR BEFORE THE COIL SPRING IS COMPRESSED WITH A COMPRESSION TOOL. THE SPRING IS HELD UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.

CAUTION: Only frame contact hoisting equipment can be used on this vehicle. All vehicles have a fully independent rear suspension. The vehicles cannot be hoisted using equipment designed to lift a vehicle by the rear axle. If this type of hoisting equipment is used, damage to rear suspension components will occur.

CAUTION: At no time when servicing a vehicle can a sheet metal screw, bolt, or other metal fastener be installed in the shock tower to take the place of an original plastic clip. It may come into contact with the strut or coil spring.

CAUTION: Wheel bearing damage will result if after loosening the hub nut, the vehicle is rolled on the ground or the weight of the vehicle is allowed to be supported by the tires for a length of time.

STANDARD PROCEDURE - LUBRICATION
There are no serviceable lubrication points on the front suspension. The front lower ball joints have grease fittings which have had the head snapped off by the manufacturer after they have been filled. This has been done to eliminate the possibility of damaging the non-vented seals. Grease will not leak from the broken grease fittings. The ball joints are sealed for life and require no maintenance.

CAUTION: No attempt should be made to replace the ball joint grease fitting with a new fitting, then filling the ball joint with grease. Damage to the grease seal can result.