Lateral Stiffener Bar

Lateral Stiffener Bar





Special Tool(s)

Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital parts and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.





1. Mark the rear shock absorber relative to the protective sleeve with the vehicle in a static, level ground position (curb height).
2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.

3. CAUTION: Do not support the rear axle at the differential housing.

Support the rear axle with a jack stand.






4. NOTE: Tighten the panard rod-to-body mount nut while the suspension is at curb height.

Loosen the panard rod-to-body mount nut, then remove and discard the lateral stiffener bar-to-body mount nut and flag bolt.
^ To install:
^ Tighten the panard rod-to-body mount nut to 175 Nm (129 ft. lbs.).
^ Tighten the lateral stiffener bar-to-body mount nut to 133 Nm (98 ft. lbs.).





5. Remove and discard the lateral stiffener bar-to-body bolts.
^ To install, tighten to 62 Nm (46 ft. lbs.).
6. Remove the lateral stiffener bar.





7. Using the special tool, raise the rear axle so the mark made on the rear shock absorber in Step 1 lines up with the protective sleeve.

8. NOTE: Tighten the panard rod fasteners while the suspension is at curb height.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
^ Always install new fasteners.