Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Excessive Friction Check

The procedure for checking excessive friction in the rear suspension is as follows:
1. With aid of a helper, lift up on the rear bumper and raise vehicle as high as possible. Slowly release the bumper and allow the vehicle to assume normal trim height.
2. Measure distance from floor to center of bumper.
3. Push down on bumper, release slowly and allow vehicle to assume normal trim height.
4. Measure distance from floor to center of bumper. The difference between the two measurements should be less than 12.7 mm (1/2 inch). If the difference exceeds this limit, inspect the front and rear wheel spindle rods and struts for damage or wear. The brake system should be carefully inspected for damage such as mispositioned lines, incorrect assembly or any failure of any component in the area of brake pipes, hoses or wheel cylinders. Immediately correct damage as required. Components that could damage the brake system are mispositioned lines contacting struts, the stabilizer shaft, lateral links, the exhaust system or incorrect assembly.