Suspension - Squeaking Noise From Front

NO.
TSB-92-33A-001

DATE
August, 1992

MODEL
1990-92 Precis



SUBJECT:
FRONT SUSPENSION SQUEAKING NOISE



PURPOSE

This Technical Service Bulletin describes the availability and installation of a new front stabilizer bar bushing which may help to reduce a squeaking noise heard from the front suspension.

VEHICLES AFFECTED

All 1990-92 Precis models built prior to 11/25/91, V.I.N. KPHVD11J9NU165399 or earlier.

DESCRIPTION

On some 1990-92 Precis models built prior to November 25, 1991, a squeaking noise may be heard from the front suspension. This noise may be caused by dryness in the front stabilizer bar bushing.





To reduce the noise, a re-designed stabilizer bar bushing is available. The new bushing contains an inner sleeve of polyester and teflon materials, providing a lubricative-like inner surface that allows the stabilizer bar to move normally, without making noise.



The remainder of this bulletin describes the removal of the old bushings and the installation of the new ones. Parts and warranty information can be found in this bulletin.



INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

NOTE:
In addition to standard hand and shop tools, obtain the following materials before proceeding with the installation procedure:

- Front Stabilizer Bar Bushing (Part Number 54813-24010). Two bushings per vehicle are required.

- 1990, 1991, or 1992 Precis Service Manual, Volume 1.



1. Unlock the steering wheel, raise the vehicle, and remove the front wheels.





2. Working through the steering gear box access opening, remove the two bolts holding the stabilizer bar bushing supports. Remove the top half of the bushing support.

NOTE:
Moving the steering wheel to the left or right will facilitate access to the bushing support bolts.





3. Slide the lower half of the bushing support (with bushing attached) a few inches inward on the stabilizer bar to dislodge the bushing. Remove the bushing and bushing support from the stabilizer bar.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 on the opposite side, noting that there is a difference between the right and left bushing support brackets.



5. Assemble the new bushing in the upper and lower support brackets with the split of the bushing positioned on the lower front of the assembly.

Pull on the bushing projections carefully with pliers until the flats of the projections seat on the upper and lower support brackets.


6. Install the bushing/support assembly by gently spreading the assembly at the bushing split and pushing it onto the stabilizer bar. Tighten the two bushing support bolts 17 to 26 N-m (12 to 19 ft.lbs.).

NOTE:
The use of a rubber lubricant to install the bushing is not necessary.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 on the opposite side.



PARTS INFORMATION

The new stabilizer bar bushings are available from your Regional PDC. The part number for the new bushing is 54813-24010.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Labor Operation Code:
54811R0B

Labor Operation Time for front stabilizer bar bushing replacement: 0.6 hours, total for both sides.