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Suspension - Front Suspension Rattling Sounds

NUMBER: 02-002-02

GROUP: Suspension

DATE: Jun. 17, 2002

SUBJECT:
Front Strut Spring Rattle Sound

OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves disassembling the front struts and installing spring insulators to the upper and lower coils.

MODELS:
2002 (ST) Sebring/Stratus Coupe

NOTE:
THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO MODELS BUILT BETWEEN AUGUST 1, 2001 AND NOVEMBER 1, 2001 (MDH0801XX TO 1101XX) WITH A 3.0L ENGINE AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE.

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:

Some vehicles may exhibit a front suspension rattle sound when travelling over bumps. This sound may originate from the front coil spring and could be caused by contact of the first and second coils of the spring. Contact may occur between the two upper or lower coils.

DIAGNOSIS:

Drive the vehicle in a manner that the customer heard the sound. If the sound can be duplicated and originates from the spring area, perform the Repair Procedure.





PARTS REQUIRED





EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

1. Following the procedures starting on page 2A-8 of the 2002 Sebring/Stratus Coupe service manual p/n 81-270-02031 (Volume 1) remove the right and left strut assemblies from the vehicle.

NOTE:
PAY ATTENTION TO THE POST-INSTALLATION OPERATIONS AND DISASSEMBLY/ASSEMBLY SERVICE POINTS.

2. Disassemble the strut assemblies.

3. Clean the top and bottom coils of the spring and wipe dry.





4. Install the spring insulators p/n MR151208 as shown (Fig. 1). Push each insulator onto the spring until the outer end of the insulator is flush with the spring edge.

5. Assemble each strut and reinstall them on the vehicle.

6. Align the vehicle using the specification found on page 2A-6 of the service manual.

7. Verify the repair.

POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.





TIME ALLOWANCE





FAILURE CODE