Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Suspension: Testing and Inspection

Front Axle And Suspension:




Inspection:






Check front axle and front suspension parts for looseness, cracks, wear or other damage.

^ Shake each front wheel to check for excessive play.
^ Make sure that cotter pin is inserted.
^ Retighten all nuts and bolts to the specified torque. Tightening torque:
^ Check spring height from top of wheel arch to ground.

1. Vehicle must be unladen*, parked on a level surface, and tires checked for proper inflation and wear (tread wear indicator must not be showing).
- Fuel, radiator coolant and engine oil full. Spare tire, jack, hand tools and mats in designated positions.

2. Bounce vehicle up and down several times before measuring.

Wheel Arch Height--Unladen:






3. Spring height is not adjustable. If out of specification, check for worn springs or suspension parts.

4. Check strut (Shock absorber) for oil leakage or damage.

Ball Joint Inspection:





Wheel Bearing Inspection:






5. Check suspension ball joint for grease leakage and ball joint dust cover for cracks or other damage. If ball joint dust cover is cracked or damaged, replace transverse link.