MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2005 Service Owner's Guide

REAR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
REAR
DESCRIPTION.........................11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SPRING AND
SHOCK.............................11
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE CHART........12
SHOCK
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - SHOCK........13
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................13
SPRING
DESCRIPTION.........................14
OPERATION...........................14
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - (SRW)....................14REMOVAL - (DRW)....................14
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - (SRW).................14
INSTALLATION - (DRW).................15
SPRING SHACKLE
REMOVAL.............................15
INSTALLATION.........................15
STABILIZER BAR
REMOVAL.............................15
INSTALLATION.........................15
STABILIZER LINK
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
REAR
DESCRIPTION
The rear suspension is comprised of:
²Shock Absorbers
²Jounce Bumpers
²Stabilizer Bar
²Leaf Springs
²Drive Axle
CAUTION: A vehicle should always be loaded so
the vehicle weight center-line is located immedi-
ately forward of the rear axle. Correct vehicle load-
ing provides proper front tire-to-road contact. This
results in maximum vehicle handling stability and
safety. Incorrect vehicle weight distribution can
cause excessive tire tread wear, spring fatigue or
failure, and erratic steering.
CAUTION: Suspension components with rubber/ure-
thane bushings (except stabilizer bar) should be
tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. It is
important to have the springs supporting the weight
of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If
springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle
ride comfort could be affected and premature bush-
ing wear may occur.
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.
VAREAR 2 - 11

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.
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE CHART
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Sway Bar Link 95 60 Ð
Sway Bar Clamp To Axle
(SRW)25 18 Ð
Sway Bar Clamp To Axle
(DRW)70 52 Ð
Rear Spring To Front
Spring Bracket
(SRW)95 70 Ð
Rear Spring To Front
Spring Bracket
(DRW)185 136 Ð
Rear Spring To Rear
Spring Bracket
(SRW)85 63 Ð
Rear Spring To Rear
Spring Bracket
(DRW)185 136 Ð
Spring Shackle To Rear
Spring Bracket
(SRW)90 66 Ð
Spring Shackle To Rear
Spring Bracket
(DRW)185 136 Ð
U-Bolt To Spring Plate &
Axle
(SRW&DRW)170 125 Ð
Lower Shock Mounting To
Rear Axle
M12 X 1.5 Bolt70 52 Ð
2 - 12 REARVA
REAR (Continued)

DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Lower Shock Mounting To
Rear Axle
M14 X 1.5 Bolt
(SRW&DRW)11 0 8 1 Ð
Upper Shock Mounting To
Frame
(SRW)80 59 Ð
Upper Shock Mounting To
Frame
(DRW)140 103 Ð
SHOCK
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - 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 shock absorber bushings do not require any
type of lubrication. Do not attempt to stop bushing
noise by lubricating them. Grease and mineral oil-
base lubricants will deteriorate the bushing.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Remove the shock absorber bolt from the rear
axle (Fig. 1).
(3) Unsnap the clip for the ALB lever (left hand
side) (Fig. 1).
(4) Remove the ALB lever from the upper shock
bolt/stud (Fig. 1).
(5) Remove the shock absorber bolt from the frame
side (Fig. 1).
(6) Remove the shock absorber (Fig. 1).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the shock absorber (Fig. 1).(2) Install the shock absorber bolt to the frame
side (Fig. 1) Tighten to 80 N´m (59 ft.lbs.) for (SRW)
or Tighten to 140 N´m (103 ft.lbs.) for (DRW).
(3) Install the ALB lever to the upper shock bolt/
stud (left hand side only) (Fig. 1).
(4) Snap the clip for the ALB lever (Fig. 1).
(5) Install the shock absorber bolt to the rear axle
(Fig. 1) Tighten to 70 N´m (52 ft.lbs.) for (M12X1.5
bolt) or Tighten to 110 N´m (81 ft.lbs.) for (M14X1.5
bolt).
(6) Lower the vehicle.
Fig. 1 SHOCK ABSORBER (LEFT SIDE SHOWN)
1 - CLIP
2 - WASHER
3 - MOUNTING STUD/BOLT
4 - WASHER
5 - NUT
6 - FRAME
7 - SHOCK ABSORBER
8 - BOLT
9 - NUT
10 - ALB LEVER
VAREAR 2 - 13
REAR (Continued)

SPRING
DESCRIPTION
The rear suspension system uses a multi-leaf
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.
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.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - (SRW)
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Support the rear axle.
(3) Remove the U-bolt and spring plate (Fig. 2).
(4) Remove the spring from the front spring
bracket (Fig. 2).
(5) Remove the rear spring with the spring shackle
from the spring bracket (Fig. 2).
(6) Lower the rear axle and remove the rear
spring.
(7) Remove the spring shackle from the spring (if
needed) (Fig. 2).
REMOVAL - (DRW)
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Support the rear axle.
(3) Remove the U-bolt and spring plate (Fig. 3).
(4) Remove the spring from the front spring
bracket (Fig. 3).
(5) Remove the rear spring with the spring shackle
from the spring bracket (Fig. 3).
(6) Lower the rear axle and remove the rear
spring.
(7) Remove the spring shackle from the spring (if
needed) (Fig. 3).
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - (SRW)
NOTE: Larger spring bushing goes toward the front.
(1) Install the spring shackle to the spring (if
removed) (Fig. 2). Tighten to 90 N´m (66 ft. lbs.).
(2) Install the spring to the front spring bracket
(Fig. 2). Tighten to 95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
(3) Install the spring to the rear spring bracket
(Fig. 2). Tighten to 85 N´m (63 ft. lbs.).
(4) Raise the rear axle and attach the spring plate
and U-bolts (Fig. 2). Tighten to 170 N´m (125 ft. lbs.).
(5) Lower the vehicle.
Fig. 2 REAR LEAF SPRING WITH SINGLE REAR
WHEELS
1 - NUT
2 - LEAF SPRING
3 - U-BOLTS
4 - PLATE
5 - SPRING BOLT
6 - SHACKLE BOLT
7 - SPRING SHACKLE
8 - U-BOLT NUTS
Fig. 3 REAR LEAF SPRING WITH DUAL REAR
WHEELS
1 - U-BOLTS
2 - NUT
3 - BOLT
4 - SPRING SHACKLE
5 - U-BOLT MOUNTING NUT
6 - U-BOLT BRACKET ALIGNING PLATE
7 - LEAF SPRING
2 - 14 REARVA

INSTALLATION - (DRW)
NOTE: Larger spring bushing goes toward the front.
(1) Install the spring shackle to the spring (if
removed) (Fig. 3). Tighten to 185 N´m (136 ft. lbs.).
(2) Install the spring to the front spring bracket
(Fig. 3). Tighten to 185 N´m (136 ft. lbs.).
(3) Install the spring to the rear spring bracket
(Fig. 3). Tighten to 185 N´m (136 ft. lbs.).
(4) Raise the rear axle and attach the spring plate
and U-bolts (Fig. 3). Tighten to 170 N´m (125 ft. lbs.).
(5) Lower the vehicle.
SPRING SHACKLE
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Support the rear axle.
(3) Remove both the rear spring shackles from the
spring bracket.
(4) Lower the rear axle and remove the rear spring
shackle from the spring.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the spring shackle to the spring.
Tighten to 90 N´m (66 ft. lbs.).
(2) Raise the rear axle while installing the spring
shackle to the spring bracket. Tighten to 85 N´m (63
ft. lbs.).
(3) Lower the vehicle.
STABILIZER BAR
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Remove the stabilizer links at the bar (Fig. 4).
(3) Remove the stabilizer bar clamp at the axle
(Fig. 4).
(4) Remove the bracket (Fig. 4)
(5) Remove the stabilizer bar from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the stabilizer bar to the axle.
(2) Install the stabilizer bar clamps and bracket,
center the bar then tighten to 25 N´m (18ft. lbs.)
(SRW) (Fig. 4) or Tighten to 70 N´m (52 ft. lbs.) for
(DRW) (Fig. 5).
(3) Install the stabilizer bar to the stabilizer links
and tighten to 95 N´m (60 ft. lbs.) (Fig. 4) or (Fig. 5).
(4) Lower the vehicle.
Fig. 4 SWAY BAR WITH SINGLE REAR WHEELS
(SRW)
1 - M12 NUT
2 - BUSHING
3 - SWAY BAR LINK
4 - M12 BOLT
5-SWAYBAR
6 - CLAMP
7-M8BOLT
8 - BRACKET
9 - FOUR POINT NUT M8
10 - WASHER
11-M8NUT
12 - BUSHING
13 - MOUNT
Fig. 5 SWAY BAR WITH DUAL REAR WHEELS
(DRW)
1 - STABILIZER LINK
2 - SWAY BRA BOLT
3 - SWAY BAR NUT
4-SWAYBAR
5 - RUBBER MOUNT
6 - SWAY BAR CLAMP
7 - CLAMP MOUNTING BOLTS
VAREAR 2 - 15
SPRING (Continued)

STABILIZER LINK
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle.
(2) Remove the stabilizer links at the bar (Fig. 4).
(3) Remove the stabilizer link at the frame.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the stabilizer bar to the stabilizer links
and tighten to 95 N´m (60 ft. lbs.) (Fig. 4).
(2) Lower the vehicle.
(3) Install the stabilizer link to the frame. Tighten
to 95 N´m (60 ft. lbs.).
2 - 16 REARVA

WHEEL ALIGNMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION.........................17
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRE-ALIGNMENT
INSPECTION.........................17STANDARD PROCEDURE - TOE
ADJUSTMENT........................19
SPECIFICATIONS.......................19
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION
NOTE: Camber and Caster are not adjustable on
this vehicle. (TOE ONLY).
NOTE: Suspension components with rubber/ure-
thane bushings should be tightened with the vehi-
cle at normal ride height. It is important to have the
springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when
the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their
normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be
affected and premature bushing wear may occur.
Wheel alignment involves the correct positioning of
the wheels in relation to the vehicle. The positioning
is accomplished through suspension and steering
linkage adjustments. An alignment is considered
essential for efficient steering, good directional stabil-
ity and to minimize tire wear. The most important
measurements of an alignment are caster, camber
and toe (Fig. 1).
CAUTION: Never attempt to modify suspension or
steering components by heating or bending.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - PRE-ALIGNMENT
INSPECTION
Before starting wheel alignment, the following
inspection and necessary corrections must be com-
pleted. Refer to Suspension and Steering System
Diagnosis Chart below for additional information.(1) Inspect tires for size, air pressure and tread
wear.
(2) Inspect front wheel bearings for wear.
(3) Inspect front wheels for excessive radial or lat-
eral runout and balance.
(4) Inspect ball studs, linkage pivot points and
steering gear for looseness, roughness or binding.
(5) Inspect suspension components for wear and
noise.
(6) Road test the vehicle.
Fig. 1 Wheel Alignment Measurements
1 - FRONT OF VEHICLE
2 - STEERING AXIS INCLINATION
3 - PIVOT POINT
4 - TOE-IN
VAWHEEL ALIGNMENT 2 - 17

SUSPENSION AND STEERING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
FRONT END NOISE 1. Loose or worn wheel bearing. 1. Replace wheel bearing.
2. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.2. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
3. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.3. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
EXCESSIVE PLAY IN
STEERING1. Loose or worn wheel bearing. 1. Replace wheel bearing.
2. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.2. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
3. Loose or worn steering gear. 3. Replace steering gear.
FRONT WHEELS SHIMMY 1. Loose or worn wheel bearing. 1. Replace wheel bearing.
2. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.2. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
3. Tires worn or out of balance. 3. Replace or balance tires.
4. Alignment. 4. Align vehicle to specifications.
VEHICLE INSTABILITY 1. Loose or worn wheel bearing. 1. Replace wheel bearing.
2. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.2. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
3. Tire pressure. 3. Adjust tire pressure.
4. Alignment. 4. Align vehicle to specifications.
EXCESSIVE STEERING
EFFORT1. Loose or worn steering gear. 1. Replace steering gear.
2. Column coupler binding. 2. Replace coupler.
3. Tire pressure. 3. Adjust tire pressure.
4. Alignment. 4. Align vehicle to specifications.
VEHICLE PULLS TO ONE
SIDE1. Tire pressure. 1. Adjust tire pressure.
2. Tire. 2. Criss-Cross Front Tires.
3. Alignment. 3. Align vehicle to specifications.
4. Loose or worn steering or
suspension components.4. Tighten or replace components as
necessary.
5. Radial tire lead. 5. Rotate or replace tire as necessary.
6. Brake pull. 6. Repair brake as necessary.
7. Weak or broken spring. 7. Replace spring.
2 - 18 WHEEL ALIGNMENTVA
WHEEL ALIGNMENT (Continued)

STANDARD PROCEDURE - TOE ADJUSTMENT
CAMBER AND CASTER ARE NOT ADJUSTABLE
(TOE ONLY)..
The wheel toe position adjustment is the final
adjustment.
(1) Start the engine and turn wheels both ways
before straightening the wheels. Secure the steering
wheel with the front wheels in the straight-ahead
position.
(2) Loosen the tie rod jam nuts.
NOTE: Each front wheel should be adjusted for
one-half of the total toe position specification. This
will ensure the steering wheel will be centered
when the wheels are positioned straight-ahead.
(3) Adjust the wheel toe position by turning the
inner tie rod as necessary.
(4) Tighten the tie rod jam nut to 50 N´m (37 ft.
lbs.).
(5) Verify the specifications
(6) Turn off engine.
SPECIFICATIONS
FRONT SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION FRONT SPECIFICATION
Toe-In  .16É
DESCRIPTION FRONT SPECIFICATION
Camber  .75É
Camber
Left to Right Difference
Max1.33É
Caster  .5É
Steering Knuckle
Inclination .5É
Steering Knuckle
Inclination
Left to Right Difference
Max1É
REAR SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION REAR SPECIFICATION
Toe-In
Max0É ( .25É)
Camber
Max0É (-.66É/+.33É)
Inclination of Rear
Wheels (Individual Wheel
Toe)= Maximum
Inclination of Rear Axle
Max0É ( .25É)
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Outer Tie Rod End Jam
Nut50 37 Ð
VAWHEEL ALIGNMENT 2 - 19
WHEEL ALIGNMENT (Continued)