Suspension System: Other Dodge Nitro I

SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEM

CASTER

Moving the rear position of the cam bolt in or out, will change the caster angle significantly and camber angle only slightly. To maintain the camber angle while adjusting caster, move the rear cam bolt in or out. Then move the front cam bolt slightly in the opposite direction.

To increase positive caster angle, move the rear position cam bolt outward (from the engine). Move the front cam bolt inward (toward the engine) slightly until the specified camber angle is obtained.

CAMBER

Move the rear position cam bolt outward (from the engine). Move the forward position cam bolt inward (toward the engine).

After adjustment is made tighten the cam bolt nuts to proper torque specification.

Scheme 21

The wheel toe position adjustment is the final adjustment.

1. Start the engine and turn wheels both ways before straightening the wheels. Secure the steering wheel with the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.
2. Turn off engine.
3. Loosen the tie rod jam nuts (1). NOTE: Each front wheel should be adjusted for one-half of the total toe position specification. This will ensure the steering wheel will be centered when the wheels are positioned straight-ahead.
4. Adjust the wheel toe position by turning the tie rod as necessary.
5. Tighten the tie rod jam nut (1) to 75 N.m (55 ft. lbs.).
6. Verify the specifications.

CURB HEIGHT

Note. The suspension is non-adjustable.

The vehicle suspension height should be measured before performing wheel alignment procedure. Also when front suspension components have been replaced. This measure must be performed with the vehicle supporting it's own weight and taken on both sides of the vehicle.

Front and rear curb heights are not adjustable. The spring selections at assembly determine curb height for acceptable appearance of the vehicle. Curb height dimensions assume full fluids (including fuel) and zero passengers. Refer to CURB HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS for front curb height dimensions.

Vehicle curb height audits should be performed utilizing the following procedure

Scheme 22

1. Drive the vehicle straight and forward on a non-tacky surface for a minimum of 20 feet to neutralize track width.
2. Bounce the front of the vehicle five times.
3. Measure and record the dimensions
4. Front - On each side of the vehicle, measure the distance from the center of the front lower control arm bushing bolt (1) to the ground (3) Record the measurement . Next measure the distance from the spindle center (2) to the ground (3) Record the measurement.
5. Take the two measurements and subtract them to get the curb height specification.

Scheme 23

REAR CURB HEIGHT

Rear curb height is defined by the relative vertical distance between the top of the lower spring seat strike surface and the bottom of the jounce cup (true metal to metal jounce travel). This is to be measured vertically inside the coil from the point intersecting the inboard edge and the for/aft center of the jounce cup (1) down to the strike surface (2).

CURB HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS

FRONT

REAR

Scheme 24

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the full weight of the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the full weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

The front suspension is designed to allow each wheel to adapt to different road surfaces independently. The wheels are mounted to hub bearings on the steering knuckle spindles (5). The hub bearings are sealed and lubricated for life. The steering knuckles turn (pivot) on ball joints integral to the outboard portion of the upper control arms (3) and pressed into the lower control arm. The ball joints and outer tie rods are lubricated for life.

REAR SUSPENSION

Note. Never use anything other than the specified tool to disassemble the ball joints & tie rods from the steering knuckle. Ball joint seal or knuckle damage can result.

BUSHINGS-STABILIZER BAR

1. Raise vehicle on hoist.
2. Remove the stabilizer bushing clamps.
3. Remove the stabilizer bushings from the stabilizer bar.

BUSHINGS-CLEVIS BRACKET

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the full weight of the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the full weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

Scheme 25

Note. Extreme pressure lubrication must be used on the threaded portions of the tool. This will increase the longevity of the tool and insure proper operation during the removal and installation process.

1. Install the new clevis bracket bushing (4) into the lower control arm (3) using special tools C-4212F (Press) (1), 9957-2 (Depth Gauge) (2), 9957-1 (driver) (5).
2. Install the upper ball joint to the knuckle and tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
3. Install the clevis bolt to the lower control arm and tighten the bolt to 150 N.m (110 ft.lbs.).
4. Install the stabilizer link lower bolt to the control arm and tighten the bolt to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.).
5. Install the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306140-S30613632892008120900000) .
6. Install the disc brake rotor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
8. Lower the vehicle.

BUSHINGS-LOWER CONTROL ARM

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the full weight of the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the full weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

Scheme 26

Note. Extreme pressure lubrication must be used on the threaded portions of the tool. This will increase the longevity of the tool and insure proper operation during the removal and installation process.

1. Install the new lower control arm bushings (3) into the lower control arm (4) using tools C-4212F (Press) (1), 9603-1 (driver) (2) and 9969-1 (receiver) (5) making sure the receiver cup is properly centered for the bushing to be pressed in to the proper depth.
2. Remove the control arm from the vise.
3. Install the lower control arm. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S38597165122008120900000) .
4. Perform a wheel alignment. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the full weight of the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the full weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

1. Install the stabilizer bushings to the stabilizer bar.
2. Install the stabilizer bushing clamps. Tighten the nuts to 149 N.m (110 ft.lbs.).
3. Lower the vehicle.

Scheme 27

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the caliper adapter. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S04003744632008120900000) . CAUTION: Never allow the disc brake caliper to hang from the brake hose. Damage to the brake hose will result. Provide a suitable support to hang the caliper securely.
4. Remove the disc brake rotor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S26410101502008120900000) .
5. Remove the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306140-S33578765482008120900000) .
6. Remove the axle shaft nut. (if equipped with four wheel drive)
7. Remove the three mounting bolts (1) for the hub/bearing assembly.
8. Remove the hub/bearing.

HUB / BEARING

1. Install the hub/bearing assembly to the vehicle.
2. Install the three mounting bolts (1) for the hub/bearing. Tighten the bolt to 130 N.m (96 ft.lbs.).
3. Install the axle shaft nut. Tighten the nut to 135 N.m (100 ft.lbs.). (if equipped with four wheel drive)
4. Install the wheel speed sensor to the hub. Tighten the bolt to 13.5 N.m (10 ft.lbs.). Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306140-S30613632892008120900000) .
5. Install the disc brake rotor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
6. Install the disc brake caliper adapter. Tighten the nut to 135 N.m (100 ft.lbs.). Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .

Scheme 28

Scheme 29

Scheme 30

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the caliper adapter. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S26237265982008120900000) . CAUTION: Never allow the disc brake caliper to hang from the brake hose. Damage to the brake hose will result. Provide a suitable support to hang the caliper securely.
4. Remove the disc brake rotor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S26410101502008120900000) .
5. Remove the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306140-S33578765482008120900000) .
6. Remove the axle shaft nut. (if equipped with four wheel drive)
7. Remove the outer tie rod nut (2).
8. Separate the outer tie rod end (1) from the steering knuckle (3) using tool 9360 (2). Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306136-S04131739202008120900000) .
9. Remove the lower ball joint nut.
10. Separate the lower ball joint from the suspension arm using tool C-4150A (3).
11. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
12. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle using tool 9360 (2). NOTE: Inspect the seal side surface of the upper ball joint, lower ball joint & outer tie rod knuckle bosses. If any significant grooves or gouges are present (or heavily scratched) Replace the steering knuckle.
13. Remove the knuckle (3) from the vehicle.
14. Remove the hub/bearing. (if needed). See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S32994679032008120900000) .

KNUCKLE

1. Install the hub/bearing. (if removed from the knuckle). See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S09378601112008120900000) .
2. Install the knuckle to the vehicle.
3. Install the upper ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
4. Install the lower ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 54 N.m (40 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
5. Install the outer tie rod end (1) to the steering knuckle and install the nut (2). Tighten the nut (2) to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306136-S11314253852008120900000) .
6. Install the axle shaft nut. Tighten the nut to 136 N.m (100 ft.lbs.). (if equipped with four wheel drive).
7. Install the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306140-S30613632892008120900000) .
8. Install the disc brake rotor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
9. Install the caliper adapter. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S13234101452008120900000) .
10. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
11. Perform a wheel alignment. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

LOWER BALL JOINT

1. Raise the front of the vehicle. Place safety floor stands under both lower control arms as far outboard as possible. Lower the vehicle to allow the stands to support some or all of the vehicle weight.
2. Mount a dial indicator solidly to the topside of the lower control arm and then zero the dial indicator.
3. Position the indicator plunger against the bottom surface of the steering knuckle. NOTE: The dial indicator plunger must be perpendicular to the machined surface of the steering knuckle.
4. Position a pry bar under the tire assembly. Pry upwards on the tire assembly.
5. If the travel exceeds 0.5 mm (0.020 in.), replace the lower ball joint. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S01980866032008120900000) .

Scheme 31

1. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
2. Remove the brake caliper and rotor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S26410101502008120900000) .
3. Separate the tie rod (1) from the steering knuckle (3) using special tool 9360 (2). Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306136-S04131739202008120900000) .
4. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle (3) using special tool 9360 (2).
5. Separate the lower ball joint (2) from the steering knuckle (1) using special tool 8677 (3).
6. Remove the steering knuckle. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S24218460442008120900000) . NOTE: Extreme pressure lubrication must be used on the threaded portions of the tool. This will increase the longevity of the tool and insure proper operation during the removal and installation process.
7. Press the ball joint from the lower control arm (3) using special tools C-4212-F (PRESS) (1), C-4212-3 (Driver) (2) and 9654-3 (Receiver) (4).

Scheme 32

Note. Extreme pressure lubrication must be used on the threaded portions of the tool. This will increase the longevity of the tool and insure proper operation during the removal and installation process.

1. Install the ball joint (4) into the control arm (3) and press in using special tools C-4212-F (press) (1), 9654-1 (Driver) (5) and 9654-2 (Receiver) (2).
2. Stake the ball joint flange in four evenly spaced places around the ball joint flange, using a chisel and hammer.
3. Install the steering knuckle. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S37987125002008120900000) .
4. Install the tie rod end into the steering knuckle. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306136-S11314253852008120900000) .
5. Install and tighten the halfshaft nut to 136 N.m (100 ft. lbs.). (If Equipped).
6. Install the brake caliper and rotor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
8. Check the vehicle ride height. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .
9. Perform a wheel alignment. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

Scheme 33

Scheme 34

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
3. Remove the stabilizer bar link (2). See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S28652726062008120900000) .
4. Remove the shock absorber lower clevis bolt (4). See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S03125600942008120900000) .
5. Remove the lower ball joint nut (2). Separate ball joint from the steering knuckle (1) with Remover 8677 (3). NOTE: Marking the lower control arm pivot bolts front and rear will aid in the assembly procedure.
6. Remove the control arm pivot bolts (3) and suspension arm from frame rail brackets (1).
7. Remove the lower control arm (2) from the vehicle.

LOWER CONTROL ARM

1. Position the lower control arm (2) at the frame rail brackets. Install the cam/pivot bolts (3) and nuts. Tighten the nuts finger-tight. CAUTION: The ball joint stud taper must be CLEAN and DRY before installing into the knuckle. Clean the stud taper with mineral spirits to remove dirt and grease.
2. Install the ball joint into the steering knuckle. and tighten the nut to 54 N.m (40 ft.lbs) plus an additional 90° turn.
3. Install shock absorber lower clevis bolt/nut (4). Tighten the nut to 150 N.m (110 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the stabilizer bar link lower bolt (2) Tighten the bolt to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.) with full vehicle weight. . See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S10721733372008120900000) .
5. Align the marks front and rear (1) at the cam/pivot bolts (3) and tighten the nuts. Tighten the nuts to 170 N.m (125 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
6. Install the wheel and tire assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
7. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
8. Perform a wheel alignment. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

Scheme 35

Scheme 36

1. Disconnect the battery (3).
2. Remove the battery. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306137-S32852281892008120900000) .
3. Unclip the power center (2) and move it to the side out of the way to access the battery tray (1).
4. Remove the battery tray (1). Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306137-S30212363712008120900000) .
5. Remove the four upper shock mounting nuts.
6. Raise and support the vehicle.
7. Remove the left tire and wheel assembly.
8. Remove the caliper and support. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S04003744632008120900000) .
9. Remove the lower bolt (4) at the lower control arm securing the clevis bracket (3).
10. Remove the stabilizer link bolt (2) at the lower control arm. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S28652726062008120900000) .
11. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
12. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle (3) using remover 9360 (2).
13. Push downward on the steering knuckle (3) and support the knuckle (4) this will allow access to remove the shock.
14. Remove the shock assembly (1) from the vehicle.
15. Remove the spring from the shock (if needed). See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S00237759342008120900000) .

SHOCK - RIGHT SIDE

1. Remove the air box. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306142-S04118526142008120900000) - 3.7L. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306143-S30235127132008120900000) - 4.0L.
2. Remove the four upper shock mounting nuts.
3. Raise and support the vehicle.
4. Remove the right side tire assembly.
5. Remove the caliper and support. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S04003744632008120900000) .
6. Remove the lower bolt (4) at the lower control arm securing the clevis bracket (3).
7. Remove the stabilizer link bolt (2) at the lower control arm. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S28652726062008120900000) .
8. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
9. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle (3) using remover 9360 (2).
10. Pull downward on the knuckle and support the knuckle (4) to allow access.
11. Remove the shock assembly (1) from the vehicle.
12. Remove the spring from the shock (if needed). See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S00237759342008120900000) .

SHOCK - LEFT SIDE

1. Install the spring to the shock (if removed). See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S30797834872008120900000) .
2. Install the shock assembly (1) to the vehicle.
3. Install the four upper shock mounting nuts. Tighten the nuts to 108 N.m (80 ft.lbs.).
4. Raise the knuckle (3) into place and reconnect the upper ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
5. Install the clevis bracket bolt (4) at the lower control arm. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S15543433772008120900000) . Tighten the bolt to 150 N.m (110 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
6. Install the caliper. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S03103635302008120900000) .
7. Install the lower stabilizer link (1) at the lower control arm. Tighten the bolt (2) to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.) with full vehicle weight. . See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S10721733372008120900000) .
8. Install the left tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. Install the battery tray (1). Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306137-S25412840592008120900000) .
11. Install the battery. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306137-S29748635702008120900000) .
12. Reinstall the power center (2) back into place.
13. Reconnect the battery cables (3).

1. Install the spring to the shock (if removed). See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S30797834872008120900000) .
2. Install the shock assembly (1) to the vehicle.
3. Install the four upper shock mounting nuts. Tighten the nuts to 108 N.m (80 ft.lbs.).
4. Raise the knuckle (3) into place and reconnect the upper ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
5. Install the clevis bracket bolt (4) at the lower control arm. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S15543433772008120900000) . Tighten the bolt to 150 N.m (110 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
6. Install the caliper. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S03103635302008120900000) .
7. Install the lower stabilizer link bolt (2) at the lower control arm. Tighten the bolt to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.) with full vehicle weight. . See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S10721733372008120900000) .
8. Install the right tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. Install the air box. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306142-S30155806882008120900000) - 3.7L. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306143-S35312860342008120900000) - 4.0L.

Scheme 37

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the shock. Refer to the proper side shock removal procedure being worked on. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S19157824542008120900000). 1 - SPRING COMPRESSOR 2 - SPRING
4. Secure the shock assembly into a Pentastar® Service Equipment W-7200 Spring compressor (1). (Scheme 37)
5. Compress the spring (2).
6. Remove the shock mount nut.
7. Remove the shock from the spring compressor.
8. Transfer the necessary parts to the type of repair being done (Insulator, Spring, shock and mount).

SPRING

1. Install the shock to the spring (2) and spring compressor (1), After the transfer of the necessary parts to the type of repair being done (Insulator, Spring, shock and mount).
2. Install the shock mounting nut. Tighten the bolt to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.).
3. Loosen the compressed spring (2).
4. Remove the shock assembly from the spring compressor (1).
5. Install the shock to the vehicle. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S29557236142008120900000) .
6. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
7. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.

CLEVIS BRACKET

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the disc brake rotor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306139-S26410101502008120900000) .
4. Remove the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306140-S33578765482008120900000) .
5. Remove the lower clevis bolt (4) at the lower control arm.
6. Remove the upper clevis bolt (2) at the shock.
7. Remove the lower stabilizer link bolt at the lower control arm.
8. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
9. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle using remover 9360.
10. Swing the knuckle downward to allow clearance to remove the clevis bracket (3).
11. Remove the clevis bracket (3) from the vehicle.

1. Install the clevis bracket upper bolt (2) to the shock (1). Tighten the bolt (2) to 108 N.m (80 ft.lbs.).
2. Raise the knuckle to the upper ball joint.
3. Install the nut to the upper ball joint. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
4. Install the clevis bracket lower bolt (4) to the lower control arm. Tighten the bolt (4) to 150 N.m (110 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
5. Install the lower stabilizer link bolt at the lower control arm. Tighten the bolt to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
6. Install the wheel speed sensor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306140-S30613632892008120900000) .
7. Install the disc brake rotor. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306139-S32655801862008120900000) .
8. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
9. Lower the vehicle.

Scheme 38

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the stabilizer link (1) bolts at the stabilizer bar.
4. Remove the stabilizer bushing bracket nuts (2).
5. Remove the stabilizer bar bushing brackets (3) from the frame.
6. Remove the stabilizer bar (1) from the vehicle.

STABILIZER BAR

1. Install the stabilizer bar (1) to the vehicle.
2. Install the stabilizer bar bushing brackets (3). Tighten the nuts (2) to 149 N.m (110 ft.lbs.).
3. Install the stabilizer link (1) bolts and bushings at the stabilizer bar. Tighten the bolt to 115 N.m (85 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
5. Lower the vehicle.

STABILIZER LINK

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the stabilizer link bolt (2) at the lower control arm.
4. Remove the stabilizer link bolt at the stabilizer bar.
5. Remove the stabilizer link (1).

1. Install the stabilizer link (1).
2. Install the stabilizer link bolt at the stabilizer bar. Tighten the bolt to 115 N.m (85 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Install the stabilizer link bolt (2) at the lower control arm. Tighten the bolt (2) to 102 N.m (75 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .

Scheme 39

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the left side tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
4. Separate the upper ball joint from the steering knuckle (3) using remover 9360 (2).
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Remove the battery. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306137-S32852281892008120900000) .
7. Unclip the power center (2) and move it to the side out of the way.
8. Remove the battery tray (1). Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306137-S30212363712008120900000) .
9. Remove the upper control arm rear nut (2) by using a ratchet and extension under the steering shaft (3).
10. Remove the upper control arm front bolt.
11. Remove the upper control arm from the vehicle.

UPPER CONTROL ARM - RIGHT

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the right side tire and wheel assembly.
3. Remove the upper ball joint nut.
4. Separate the upper ball joint from the steering knuckle (3) using remover 9360 (2).
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Remove the air box assembly. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306142-S04118526142008120900000) - 3.7L. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306143-S30235127132008120900000) - 4.0L.
7. Remove the upper control arm rear bolt/nut.
8. Remove the upper control arm front bolt/nut.
9. Remove the upper control arm from the vehicle.

UPPER CONTROL ARM - LEFT

1. Install the upper control arm to the vehicle.
2. Install the upper control arm front flag bolt (1). Tighten the nut (2) to 122 N.m (90 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Install the upper control arm rear flag bolt. Tighten the nut to 122 N.m (90 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the battery tray (1). Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306137-S25412840592008120900000) .
5. Install the battery. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306137-S29748635702008120900000) .
6. Reclip and mount the power center (2).
7. Install the upper ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
8. Install the left side tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. Set the toe. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

1. Install the upper control arm to the vehicle.
2. Install the upper control arm front flag bolt. Tighten the nut to 122 N.m (90 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Install the upper control arm rear flag bolt. Tighten the nut to 122 N.m (90 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the air box. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306142-S30155806882008120900000) - 3.7L. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306143-S35312860342008120900000) - 4.0L.
5. Install the upper ball joint nut. Tighten the nut to 41 N.m (30 ft.lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn.
6. Install the right side tire and wheel assembly. Refer to «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306141-S10337382502008120900000) .
7. Lower the vehicle.
8. Set the toe. See «STANDARD PROCEDURE»(ref-306138-S38414020012008120900000) .

Scheme 40

Note. Suspension components with rubber/urethane bushings should be tightened with the full weight of the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the full weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

The rear suspension is comprised of

1. Drive axle
2. Shock absorbers (1)
3. Coil springs (2)
4. Lower suspension arms (5)
5. Upper suspension arm
6. Stabilizer bar (4)
7. Stabilizer link (3)
8. Track bar (6)

STABILIZER BAR BUSHINGS

1. Raise and support vehicle.
2. Remove the stabilizer bushing clamp.
3. Remove the bushing from the stabilizer bar.

1. Install the bushing to the stabilizer bar.
2. Install the stabilizer bar bushing retainer clamp and bolts. Tighten the bolts to 47 N.m (35 ft.lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Lower the vehicle.

SHOCK ABSORBERS

The top of the shock absorbers (1) are bolted to the body. The bottom of the shocks are bolted to the axle brackets. The standard shocks have conventional twin tube construction and are low pressure gas charged. Gas charging prevents cavitation during rough road operation.

The shock absorbers dampen jounce and rebound motion of the vehicle over various road conditions and limit rebound suspension travel.

Scheme 41

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Position a hydraulic jack under the axle to support the axle.
2. Remove the upper bolt (1) from the frame bracket.
3. Remove the lower bolt and nut from the axle bracket (3). Remove the shock absorber (2).

SHOCK ABSORBER

1. Install the shock absorber (2) in the frame bracket and install the bolt (1).
2. Install the shock absorber (2) in the axle bracket (3) and install the bolt.
3. Tighten the upper mounting bolt/nut to 108 N.m (80 ft. lbs.). Tighten the lower mounting bolt/nut to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 42

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Position a hydraulic jack under the axle to support the axle.
2. Remove the shock absorber lower bolt from the axle bracket.
3. Lower the hydraulic jack and tilt the axle and remove the coil spring (3). (Scheme 42)
4. Remove and inspect the upper and lower spring isolators (1). (Scheme 42)

COIL SPRING

1. Install the upper isolator (1). (Scheme 42)
2. Install the lower isolator. (Scheme 42)
3. Pull down on the axle and position the coil spring (3) in the lower isolator. CAUTION: Ensure the spring is positioned on the lower isolator.
4. Raise the axle with the hydraulic jack.
5. Install the shock absorber to the axle bracket and tighten to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.).
6. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 43

1. Remove the shock. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S11806083332008120900000).
2. Remove the coil spring. See «REMOVAL»(ref-306138-S42267448192008120900000).
3. Pull the jounce bumper downwards to remove. (Scheme 43)

JOUNCE BUMPER

1. Install the jounce bumper into the mount by twisting the bumper into place. (Scheme 43)
2. Install the coil spring. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S23504443172008120900000).
3. Install the shock. See «INSTALLATION»(ref-306138-S07028878762008120900000).

Scheme 44

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the stabilizer nut (3) at the bar (5).
3. Remove the stabilizer links (4) from the stabilizer bar (5).
4. Remove the stabilizer bar bolts (1) from the axle.
5. Remove the stabilizer bar (5).

1. Position the stabilizer bar (5) on the axle. Ensure the bar is centered with equal spacing on both sides. Tighten the bolts (1) to 47 N.m (35 ft. lbs.).
2. Install the stabilizer links (3) to the bar (5). Tighten the nuts (3) to 88 N.m (65 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Remove support and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 45

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Support the rear axle with a jack.
3. Remove the rear tire right side only .
4. Remove the upper link (2) bolt at the frame.
5. Remove the lower link nut (3) at the stabilizer bar (5).
6. Remove stabilizer link (4).

1. Install the upper bolt (2) for the stabilizer link (1) to the frame and tighten to 102 N.m (75 ft. lbs.).
2. Install the stabilizer link (4) to the stabilizer bar (5).
3. Install the nut (3) and tighten to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
4. Install the spare tire right side only .
5. Remove the jack and lower the vehicle.

MASS DAMPER

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Support the rear axle with a jack.
3. Remove the lower link nut (3) at the stabilizer bar (5).
4. Remove the mass damper (7).
5. Remove stabilizer bar (5) from the link (4).
6. Remove the retainer (6).

Scheme 46

1. Install the retainer (2) to the stabilizer link (1).
2. Install the stabilizer bar (3) over the retainer (2).
3. Install the mass damper (4) to the stabilizer link stud.
4. Install the nut (5) and tighten to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
5. Remove the jack and lower the vehicle.

LOWER SUSPENSION ARMS AND BUSHINGS

The lower suspension arms (5) are tubular steel and use a voided round bushing at the arm on the axle side. The body side uses a solid round bushing.

The bushings provide isolation from the axle. The arms mount to the unibody frame rail bracket and the axle brackets. The arm and bushings provide location and react to loads.

Scheme 47

1. Raise the vehicle and support the rear axle.
2. Remove the fuel tank (3). Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306144-S23692653342008120900000) .
3. Remove the lower suspension arm nut and bolt from the axle bracket.
4. Remove the nut and bolt (1) from the frame rail (4) and remove the lower suspension arm (2).

Scheme 48

1. Raise the vehicle and support the rear axle.
2. Remove the lower suspension arm nut and bolt from the axle bracket. 1 - NUT 2 - UPPER SUSPENSION ARM 3 - UPPER SPRING ISOLATOR 4 - JOUNCE BUMPER RETAINER 5 - BOLT 6 - JOUNCE BUMPER 7 - UPPER FLAG BOLT 8 - LOWER FLAG BOLT 9 - LOWER SUSPENSION ARM
3. Remove the exhaust from the mid and rear hanger rubber isolators to allow the exhaust system to lower enough to remove the bolt at the frame rail.
4. Remove the nut (1) and bolt (8) from the frame rail and remove the lower suspension arm (9).

LOWER SUSPENSION ARM - LEFT SIDE

Note. All torques should be done with vehicle on the ground with full vehicle weight.

1. Position the lower suspension arm (2) in the frame rail (4).
2. Install the frame rail bracket bolt and nut (1). Tighten to 163 N.m (120 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Position the lower suspension arm in the axle bracket.
4. Install the axle bracket bolt and nut. Tighten to 203 N.m (150 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
5. Install the fuel tank. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306144-S30588483582008120900000) .
6. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

LOWER SUSPENSION ARM - RIGHT SIDE

Note. All torques should be done with vehicle on the ground with full vehicle weight.

1. Position the lower suspension arm (9) in the frame rail.
2. Install the frame rail bracket bolt (8) and nut (1). Tighten to 163 N.m (120 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Install the exhaust back in the mid and rear hanger rubber isolators.
4. Position the lower suspension arm in the axle bracket.
5. Install the axle bracket bolt and nut. Tighten to 203 N.m (150 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
6. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

UPPER SUSPENSION ARM, BUSHINGS, AND BALL JOINT

The suspension arm uses bushings to isolate road noise. The suspension arm is bolted through bushings to a bracket at the body and axle.

The upper suspension arm provides fore/aft and lateral location of the rear axle. The suspension arm travel is limited through the use of jounce bumpers in compression and shock absorbers in rebound.

Scheme 49

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Support the rear axle.
3. Lower the fuel tank in order to gain access to the bolt. Refer to «REMOVAL»(ref-306144-S23692653342008120900000) .
4. Remove the upper suspension arm nut and bolt from the axle bracket.
5. Remove the nut and bolt (1) from the frame rail and remove the upper suspension arm (2).

Scheme 50

1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Support the rear axle.
3. Remove the upper suspension arm nut and bolt (1) from the axle bracket.
4. Remove the nut (3) and flag bolt from the frame rail and remove the upper suspension arm (2).

UPPER SUSPENSION ARM - LEFT SIDE

Note. All torques should be done with vehicle on the ground with full vehicle weight.

1. Position the upper suspension arm (2) in the frame rail bracket.
2. Install the mounting bolt and nut (1) Tighten to 95 N.m (70 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Position the upper suspension arm in the axle bracket.
4. Install the mounting bolt and nut. Tighten to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
5. Raise the fuel tank back into place and secure. Refer to «INSTALLATION»(ref-306144-S30588483582008120900000) .
6. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

UPPER SUSPENSION ARM - RIGHT SIDE

Note. All torques should be done with vehicle on the ground with full vehicle weight.

1. Position the upper suspension arm (2) in the frame rail bracket.
2. Install the mounting flag bolt and nut (3). Tighten to 95 N.m (70 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
3. Position the upper suspension arm (2) in the axle bracket.
4. Install the mounting bolt and nut (1). Tighten to 115 N.m (85 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.
5. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.

Scheme 51

Scheme 52

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Position a hydraulic jack under the axle to support the axle.
2. Remove the track bar flag bolt and nut (1) from the frame bracket (2).
3. Remove the track bar bolt and nut (2) from the axle bracket (3).
4. Remove the track bar (1).

TRACK BAR

1. Install the track bar (3) to the vehicle.
2. Install the track bar bolt and nut (1) in the frame bracket (2).
3. Install the track bar (1) into the axle bracket (3).
4. Install the track bar bolt and nut (2) in the axle bracket.
5. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.
6. Tighten the body side mounting bolt/nut to 183 N.m (135 ft. lbs.). Tighten the axle side mounting bolt/nut to 176 N.m (130 ft. lbs.). with full vehicle weight.