LEAF SPRINGS
DESCRIPTION
The rear suspension system uses multi-leaf single
stage springs and a solid drive axle. The forward end
of the springs are mounted to the body rail hangers
through rubber bushings. The rearward end of the
springs are attached to the body by the use of shack-
les. The spring and shackles use rubber bushings.
The bushing help to isolate road noise.
OPERATION
The springs control ride quality and maintain vehi-
cle ride height. The shackles allow the springs to
change their length as the vehicle moves over various
road conditions.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
SPRING AND SHOCK
A knocking or rattling noise from a shock absorber
may be caused by movement between mounting
bushings and metal brackets or attaching compo-
nents. These noises can usually be stopped by tight-
ening the attaching nuts. If the noise persists,
inspect for damaged and worn bushings, and attach-
ing components. Repair as necessary if any of these
conditions exist.
A squeaking noise from the shock absorber may be
caused by the hydraulic valving and may be intermit-
tent. This condition is not repairable and the shock
absorber must be replaced.
The shock absorbers are not refillable or adjust-
able. If a malfunction occurs, the shock absorber
must be replaced. To test a shock absorber, hold it in
an upright position and force the piston in and out of
the cylinder four or five times. The action throughout
each stroke should be smooth and even.
The spring eye and shock absorber bushings do not
require any type of lubrication. Do not attempt to
stop spring bushing noise by lubricating them.
Grease and mineral oil-base lubricants will deterio-
rate the bushing rubber.
If the vehicle is used for severe, off-road operation,
the springs should be examined periodically. Check
for broken and shifted leafs, loose and missing clips,
and broken center bolts. Refer to Spring and Shock
Absorber Diagnosis chart for additional information.
SPRING AND SHOCK ABSORBER
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
SPRING SAGS 1. Broken leaf. 1. Replace spring.
2. Spring fatigue. 2. Replace spring.
SPRING NOISE 1. Loose spring clamp bolts. 1. Tighten to specification.
2. Worn bushings. 2. Replace bushings.
3. Worn or missing spring tip inserts. 3. Replace spring tip inserts.
SHOCK NOISE 1. Loose mounting fastener. 1. Tighten to specification.
2. Worn bushings. 2. Replace shock.
3. Leaking shock. 3. Replace shock.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
SHOCK ABSORBER
REMOVAL
(1) Raise vehicle and support rear axle.
(2) Remove shock absorber lower nut and bolt from
the spring plate (Fig. 2).
(3) Remove shock absorber upper nut and bolt
from the frame bracket and remove the shock
absorber.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install shock absorber into upper frame
bracket. Install bolt and nut and tighten nut to 95
N·m (70 ft. lbs.).
(2) Install shock absorber into the spring plate.
Install the bolt and nut and tighten nut to 95 N·m
(70 ft. lbs.).
(3) Remove axle support and lower vehicle.
2 - 24 SUSPENSION DN
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)
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