Rear

Removal

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect the performance of vital components and their failure can result in major service expense. Install new parts with the same part number or an equivalent part if installation is necessary. Do not install a part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to ensure correct retention of these parts.

1. Remove both wheel and tire assemblies.





2. Disconnect the stabilizer bar from the stabilizer bar links.
1 Remove the nuts and the bushings.
2 Rotate the stabilizer bar off the links.
3. Position a jack stand under the front crossmember.
4. Use a suitable jack or jack stands to support the rear axle.





5. Remove the nuts and bolts and disconnect the lateral arms from the frame. Discard the nuts and bolts.





6. WARNING: All vehicles are equipped with gas pressurized shock absorbers which will extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorbers during removal or component servicing. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury.

Remove the nuts and disconnect the shock absorbers from the axle. Discard the nuts.
7. Carefully lower the special tool.





8. Remove the springs and spring insulators.

Installation
1. Inspect the spring insulators for wear or damage. Install new insulators if necessary.





2. Install the spring insulators on the springs.





3. Install the springs and the spring insulators in the vehicle. Make sure the springs are correctly seated.
4. Raise the axle using the special tool.





5. Connect the shock absorbers to the axle and install new nuts.





6. Connect the lateral arms to the frame and install new bolts and nuts. Do not tighten at this time.
7. Using the special tool, raise the axle until the axle is at curb height.





8. Tighten both bolts.
9. Lower the axle and remove the special tool.
10. Remove the jack stand.





11. Connect the stabilizer bar to the stabilizer bar links.
1 Rotate the stabilizer bar onto the links and install the bushings.
2 Install the nuts.
12. Install the wheel and tire assemblies.
13. Lower the vehicle.