Trailing Arm: Description and Operation

The purpose of the lateral links and trailing arms is to control the movement of the rear spindle. The lateral links control the lateral movement of the rear spindle while the trailing arms control the fore and aft movement of the spindle. The lateral links and trailing arms have rubber isolator bushings at each end. The lateral links are attached to the rear crossmember and the spindle, using a bolt and nut assembly at each end. The trailing arms are attached to the spindle and the body of the vehicle. The trailing arm to rear spindle attachment is through a bracket which is attached to the bottom of the spindle. The trailing arm attaches to the body using a bracket attached to the floor pan. The rear lateral link incorporates a threaded adjustment link to provide a means for rear wheel Toe adjustment.

Lateral links, trailing arms and knuckles are normally replaced only when the part has been damaged or when the vehicle has been involved in an accident. If a suspension part has been damaged, be sure to check the underbody dimensions of the car. If underbody dimensions of the vehicle are not correct, the frame must be straightened before replacement suspension components are installed.