service DODGE NEON 2000 Service Owner's Guide

The lateral arms are made of stamped steel and
have rubber isolator bushings at each end. The lat-
eral arms are attached to the rear crossmember and
knuckle using a unique bolt and nut assembly at
each end. The lateral arm-to-rear crossmember
attaching bolts are longer than the lateral arm-to-
knuckle attaching bolts. Each lateral arm to knuckle
attaching bolt and nut assembly uses two flat wash-
ers. Each lateral arm to rear crossmember attaching
bolt uses one flat washer and one adjustment cam to
provide a means for rear wheel alignment toe adjust-
ment.
TENSION STRUT
The tension strut controls the fore-and-aft move-
ment of the rear knuckle (Fig. 1).
There is one tension strut per side of the rear sus-
pension. The leading end of the tension strut
attaches to the frame rail while the trailing end of
the strut attaches to the lower end of the rear
knuckle. The tension strut is isolated from the rest of
the rear suspension through the use of rubber bush-
ings located at each end. The rear bushings (bayonet
type) can be serviced separately, the front bushings
(spool type) cannot.
STABILIZER BAR (REAR)
The stabilizer bar interconnects both rear strut
assemblies and is attached to the rear frame rails of
the vehicle (Fig. 3).
The rear stabilizer bar allows jounce and rebound
movements affecting one wheel to be partially trans-
mitted to the opposite wheel of the vehicle to stabi-
lize body roll.Attachment of the stabilizer bar to the rear frame
rails of the vehicle is through two rubber-isolator
cushions and retainers (Fig. 1). The stabilizer bar
attachment to each strut assembly is done utilizing a
rubber isolated stabilizer bar link. All parts of the
stabilizer bar are serviceable, and the stabilizer bar
to frame rail isolator cushions are split for easy
removal and installation.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
STRUT ASSEMBLY (REAR)
Inspect the strut assembly for the following condi-
tions (Fig. 4):
²Inspect for a damaged or broken coil spring.
²Inspect for a torn or damaged strut assembly
dust shield.
²Lift the dust shield and inspect the strut assem-
bly for evidence of fluid running from the upper end
of the strut fluid reservoir. (Actual leakage will be a
stream of fluid running down the side and dripping
off lower end of unit.) A slight amount of seepage
between the strut shaft and strut shaft seal is not
unusual and does not affect performance of the strut
assembly.
²Lift the dust shield and inspect the jounce
bumper for signs of damage or deterioration.
Fig. 2 Lateral Arms
1 ± REAR STABILIZER BAR
2 ± REAR LATERAL ARMS
3 ± RIGHT FRONT LATERAL ARM
4 ± LEFT FRONT LATERAL ARM
Fig. 3 Rear Stabilizer Bar
1 ± REAR STABILIZER BAR
2 ± REAR LATERAL ARMS
3 ± RIGHT FRONT LATERAL ARM
4 ± LEFT FRONT LATERAL ARM
2 - 38 SUSPENSIONPL
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)

KNUCKLE (REAR)
The rear knuckle is not a repairable component of
the rear suspension. Upon visual inspection, if it is
determined that the knuckle is cracked, bent or bro-
ken, no attempt is to be made to repair or to
straighten the knuckle. The knuckle must be
replaced if found to be damaged in any way.
HUB AND BEARING (REAR)
The hub and bearing is designed for the life of the
vehicle and requires no type of periodic maintenance
(Fig. 1). The following procedure may be used for
diagnosing the condition of the hub and bearing.
With the wheel, disc brake rotor or brake drum
removed, rotate the hub. Any roughness or resistance
to rotation may indicate dirt intrusion or a failed hub
bearing. If the bearing exhibits any of these condi-
tions during diagnosis, the hub and bearing will
require replacement. The bearing is not serviceable
alone.
Damaged bearing seals and the resulting excessive
grease loss may also require hub and bearing
replacement. Moderate grease weapage from thebearing is considered normal and should not require
replacement of the wheel bearing.
To diagnose a bent hub, refer to BRAKE ROTOR in
the DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING section in the
BRAKES service manual group for the procedure on
measuring hub runout.
LATERAL ARMS
Inspect each lateral arm (Fig. 1). Look for signs of
contact with an object that has caused damage to the
lateral arm. If the lateral arm is bent or damaged,
the lateral arm will require replacement. Do not
attempt to repair or straighten a lateral arm.
Inspect the lateral arm isolator bushings and their
sleeves for signs of damage or deterioration. If dam-
age or deterioration is present, replacement of the
entire lateral arm will be required. The isolator
bushings cannot be serviced separately from the lat-
eral arms.
TENSION STRUT
Inspect the tension strut (Fig. 1). Look for signs of
contact with any object that has bent or caused other
damage to the tension strut. If the tension strut is
bent or damaged, the tension strut will require
replacement. Do not attempt to repair or straighten a
tension strut.
Inspect the tension strut front (spool type) bushing,
and rear (bayonet type) bushings and retainers for
signs of deterioration or damage. If the front bushing
is damaged or shows signs of deteriation, the tension
strut must be replaced. The front bushing cannot be
replaced separately. If the rear bushings are deterio-
rated or damaged, or the retainers are damaged,
replacement is necessary. The bushings and retainers
can be replaced separately from the tension strut.
STABILIZER BAR (REAR)
Inspect the stabilizer bar (Fig. 1). Look for damage
or bending. If damage is evident, the bar must be
replaced.
Inspect for broken, cracked or distorted stabilizer
bar cushions and cushion retainers. The horizontal
slit at the front of each cushion is supposed to be
there. If damage is evident, the cushions can be
replaced separately from the stabilizer bar utilizing
the horizontal slit.
Inspect the stabilizer bar links that attach the sta-
bilizer bar to each rear strut. Look for damage or
deterioration of the bushings on the ends of each
link. Inspect the stabilizer bar link to ensure it is not
bent or broken. If any of these conditions are present,
the stabilizer bar link must be replaced. The links
can be replaced separately from the stabilizer bar.
Fig. 4 Strut Assembly
1 ± STRUT ASSEMBLY
2 ± STRUT
3 ± LOWER SPRING ISOLATOR
4 ± COIL SPRING
5 ± JOUNCE BUMPER
6 ± DUST SHIELD
7 ± UPPER MOUNT
PLSUSPENSION 2 - 39
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE STRUT SHAFT
NUT WHILE STRUT ASSEMBLY IS INSTALLED IN
VEHICLE, OR BEFORE THE COIL SPRING IS COM-
PRESSED WITH A COMPRESSION TOOL. THE
SPRING IS HELD UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
CAUTION: Only frame contact or wheel lift hoisting
equipment can be used on vehicles having a fully
independent rear suspension. Vehicles with inde-
pendent rear suspension can not be hoisted using
equipment designed to lift a vehicle by the rear
axle. If this type of hoisting equipment is used dam-
age to rear suspension components will occur.
NOTE: If a rear suspension component becomes
bent, damaged or fails, no attempt should be made
to straighten or repair it. Always replace it with a
new component.
STRUT ASSEMBLY (REAR)
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove the rear wheel and tire assembly from
the vehicle.
(3) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, remove the screw securing the brake hose
bracket to the rear of the strut assembly (Fig. 5).
(4) If the vehicle is equipped with the antilock
brake system (ABS), remove the screw securing the
ABS wheel speed sensor bracket to the rear of the
strut assembly (Fig. 6).
(5) Remove the nut from the end of the rear stabi-
lizer bar link bolt (Fig. 5). Pull the bolt out through
the top of the link and remove the link.
(6) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc brakes
(Fig. 7), perform the following:
²Remove the two guide pin bolts securing the
front disc brake caliper to the steering knuckle.
²Remove the disc brake caliper from the knuckle
and brake rotor.²Hang the caliper out of the way using a wire
hanger or cord. Do not support the caliper by letting
it hang by the hydraulic hose.
Fig. 5 Rear of Strut Assembly
1 ± BRAKE HOSE BRACKET SCREW
2 ± STABILIZER BAR LINK
3 ± NUT
4 ± STRUT ASSEMBLY
Fig. 6 Rear of Strut Assembly with ABS
1 ± ABS WHEEL SPEED SENSOR BRACKET SCREW
2 ± STABILIZER BAR LINK
3 ± NUT
4 ± STRUT ASSEMBLY
2 - 40 SUSPENSIONPL

CAUTION: The strut-to-knuckle attaching bolts are
serrated and must not be turned during removal.
Hold the bolts stationary in the steering knuckle
while removing the nuts, then tap the bolts out
using a pin punch.
(7) Remove the two nuts and bolts attaching the
strut to the rear knuckle (Fig. 1).
(8) Lower the vehicle just enough to access the
luggage compartment without letting the tires touch
the floor. Access to rear upper strut mount attaching
bolts is through the luggage compartment.
(9) Open the deck lid.
(10) If equipped, remove the carpet from the top of
the strut tower.
(11) Loosen, but do not completely remove the 3
nuts securing the strut assembly to the strut tower
(Fig. 8).
Grasp the strut assembly to keep it from moving,
then remove the 3 mounting nuts at the strut tower.
(12) Remove the strut assembly from the knuckle
by sliding it away from the knuckle, lowering it
between the two lateral arms, then tipping the top
outward and removing it out through the well open-
ing.
(13) For disassembly and assembly procedures of
the strut assembly, refer to STRUT ASSEMBLY in
the DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY section in this
section of this service manual group.
INSTALLATION
(1) To place the strut assembly into mounting posi-
tion, start the lower end of the strut over the top of
the knuckle and down the back between the two lat-
eral arms. Next, lift the top of the strut assembly up
into the strut tower aligning the studs on top of the
upper mount with the three mounting holes in the
strut tower. While holding the strut assembly in
place, install the three mounting nuts on the upper
mount studs inside the luggage compartment (Fig. 8).
Tighten the 3 mounting nuts to a torque of 34 N´m
(300 in. lbs).
(2) Install the carpeting back on top of the rear
strut tower.
(3) Close the deck lid.
(4) Raise the vehicle.
CAUTION: The strut-to-knuckle attaching bolts are
serrated and must not be turned during installation.
Once installed, hold the bolts stationary in the
steering knuckle while installing and tightening the
nuts.
(5) Align the holes in the strut clevis bracket on
the lower end of the strut with the mounting holes in
the knuckle. Install the two bolts attaching the strut
to the rear knuckle (Fig. 1). Install the nuts. Tighten
the two nuts to 88 N´m (65 ft. lbs.).
(6) If the vehicle is equipped with disc brakes (Fig.
7), install the brake rotor and disc brake caliper on
the knuckle. Install the two guide pin bolts securing
the front disc brake caliper to the steering knuckle.
Tighten the guide pin bolts to a torque of 22 N´m
(192 in. lbs.).
(7) Reinstall the stabilizer bar link (Fig. 1):
Fig. 7 Rear Disc Brakes
1 ± DISC BRAKE CALIPER
2 ± DISC BRAKE ADAPTER
3 ± GUIDE PIN BOLTS
4 ± HUB AND BEARING
5 ± BRAKE ROTOR
6 ± RETAINER CLIP
7 ± DUST CAP
8 ± NUT
Fig. 8 Mounting At Strut Tower
1 ± UPPER MOUNT
2 ± MOUNTING NUTS
3 ± STRUT TOWER
PLSUSPENSION 2 - 41
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

²Place the link center sleeve and bushings
between the eye in the end of the stabilizer bar and
the link mounting bracket on the strut.
²Start the stabilizer bar link bolt with bushing
from the top, down through the stabilizer bar, inner
link bushings and sleeve, and strut link mounting
bracket.
²Install a lower bushing, then the nut. Do not
tighten the nut at this time.
(8) If the vehicle is equipped with the antilock
brake system (ABS), install the screw securing the
ABS wheel speed sensor bracket to the rear of the
strut assembly (Fig. 6). Tighten the mounting screw
to a torque of 13 N´m (120 in. lbs.).
(9) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, install the screw securing the brake hose
bracket to the rear of the strut assembly (Fig. 5).
Tighten the screw to a torque of 31 N´m (275 in. lbs.).
(10) Install the tire and wheel assembly on vehicle.
Tighten the wheel mounting stud nuts in proper
sequence until all nuts are torqued to half specifica-
tion. Repeat the tightening sequence, this time, to
full specified torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(11) Lower the vehicle to ground level.
(12) Tighten the stabilizer bar link nut to a torque
of 23 N´m (200 in. lbs.).
(13) Set the rear toe on the vehicle to the required
specification if necessary. Refer to WHEEL ALIGN-
MENT in this service manual group.
KNUCKLE (REAR)
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove the rear wheel and tire assembly from
the vehicle.
(3) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, remove the screw securing the brake hose
bracket to the rear of the strut assembly (Fig. 5).
(4) If the vehicle is equipped with the antilock
brake system (ABS), remove the screw securing the
ABS wheel speed sensor bracket to the rear of the
strut assembly (Fig. 6).
(5) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, remove any retainer clips from the wheel
mounting studs, then pull the brake drum off the
hub and bearing.
(6) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc brakes
(Fig. 7), perform the following:²Remove the two guide pin bolts securing the
front disc brake caliper to the steering knuckle.
²Remove the disc brake caliper from the knuckle
and brake rotor.
²Hang the caliper out of the way using a wire
hanger or cord. Do not support the caliper by letting
it hang by the hydraulic hose.
²Remove any retainer clips from the wheel
mounting studs, then pull the brake rotor off the hub
and bearing.
(7) Remove the dust cap from the hub and bearing
assembly (Fig. 7).
(8) Remove the retaining nut, then the hub and
bearing from the knuckle's spindle (Fig. 7).
(9) If vehicle is equipped with rear drum brakes,
remove the four bolts attaching the rear brake sup-
port plate to the knuckle (Fig. 9). Next, remove the
brake support plate, brake shoes and wheel cylinder
as an assembly from the rear knuckle, then hang it
out of the way using a wire hanger or cord. Do not
overextend the brake hose when being hung. It is not
necessary to remove the brake hose from the wheel
cylinder when removing the support plate.
(10) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc
brakes, remove the four bolts mounting the disc
brake adapter to the rear knuckle (Fig. 10). Next,
remove the adapter, rotor shield, parking brake shoes
and parking brake cable as an assembly from the
knuckle, then hang it out of the way using a wire
hanger or cord.Fig. 9 Support Plate Mounting
1 ± BRAKE SHOES
2 ± WHEEL CYLINDER
3 ± KNUCKLE
4 ± BRAKE SUPPORT PLATE MOUNTING BOLTS
5 ± BRAKE SUPPORT PLATE
2 - 42 SUSPENSIONPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

the front side. Install the nut, but do not completely
tighten it at this time. The nut will need to be tight-
ened when the vehicle is at curb height.
(4) Install the rear bayonet bushing on the tension
strut. Be sure the stepped area of the bushing is
squarely seated into the hole in the knuckle.
(5) Install the rear tension strut retainer, then the
nut. To completely install the nut, place a wrench on
the flat formed into the tension strut and tighten the
nut (Fig. 12). Tighten the nut to a torque of 95 N´m
(70 ft. lbs.).
(6) If vehicle is equipped with rear drum brakes,
install the brake support plate on the knuckle and
attach it using it's four mounting bolts (Fig. 9).
Tighten the mounting bolts to a torque of 75 N´m (55
ft. lbs.).
(7) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc brakes,
install the disc brake adapter on the knuckle and
attach it using it's four mounting bolts (Fig. 10).
Tighten the mounting bolts to a torque of 75 N´m (55
ft. lbs.).
(8) Install the hub and bearing on the knuckle's
spindle, then install a new retaining nut (Fig. 7). Do
not reuse the original nut. Tighten the nut to a
torque of 217 N´m (160 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install the dust cap on the end of the hub and
bearing (Fig. 7).
(10) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc
brakes (Fig. 7), install the brake rotor and disc brake
caliper on the knuckle. Install the two guide pin bolts
securing the front disc brake caliper to the steering
knuckle. Tighten the guide pin bolts to a torque of 22
N´m (192 in. lbs.).
(11) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, install the screw securing the brake hose
bracket to the rear of the strut assembly (Fig. 5).
Tighten the screw to a torque of 31 N´m (275 in. lbs.).
(12) If the vehicle is equipped with the antilock
brake system (ABS), install the screw securing the
ABS wheel speed sensor bracket to the rear of the
strut assembly (Fig. 6). Tighten the mounting screw
to a torque of 13 N´m (120 in. lbs.).
(13) Install the tire and wheel assembly. Tighten
the wheel mounting nuts in proper sequence until all
nuts are torqued to half specification. Repeat the
tightening sequence, this time, to full specified
torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(14) Lower the vehicle to ground level.
(15) Tighten the lateral arm-to-knuckle mounting
bolt nut to a torque of 95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
(16) Set the rear toe on the vehicle to the required
specification if necessary. Refer to WHEEL ALIGN-
MENT in this service manual group.HUB AND BEARING (REAR)
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove the rear wheel and tire assembly from
the vehicle.
(3) If the vehicle is equipped with rear drum
brakes, remove any retainer clips from the wheel
mounting studs, then pull the brake drum off the
hub and bearing.
(4) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc brakes
(Fig. 7), perform the following:
²Remove the two guide pin bolts securing the
front disc brake caliper to the steering knuckle.
²Remove the disc brake caliper from the knuckle
and brake rotor.
²Hang the caliper out of the way using a wire
hanger or cord. Do not support the caliper by letting
it hang by the hydraulic hose.
²Remove any retainer clips from the wheel
mounting studs, then pull the brake rotor off the hub
and bearing.
(5) Remove the dust cap from the hub and bearing
assembly (Fig. 7).
(6) Remove the retaining nut, then the hub and
bearing from the knuckle's spindle (Fig. 7).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the hub and bearing on the knuckle's
spindle, then install a new retaining nut (Fig. 7). Do
not reuse the original nut. Tighten the nut to a
torque of 217 N´m (160 ft. lbs.).
(2) Install the dust cap on the end of the hub and
bearing (Fig. 7).
(3) If the vehicle is equipped with rear disc brakes
(Fig. 7), install the brake rotor and disc brake caliper
on the knuckle. Install the two guide pin bolts secur-
ing the front disc brake caliper to the steering
knuckle. Tighten the guide pin bolts to a torque of 22
N´m (192 in. lbs.).
(4) Install the tire and wheel assembly. Tighten
the wheel mounting nuts in proper sequence until all
nuts are torqued to half specification. Repeat the
tightening sequence, this time, to full specified
torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(5) Lower the vehicle to ground level.
2 - 44 SUSPENSIONPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

LATERAL ARMS
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
Use the following procedure for removal and instal-
lation of one or both lateral arms on one side of the
vehicle's rear suspension.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove the rear tire and wheel assembly.
(3) Remove the nut, bolt and washers attaching
both lateral arms to the knuckle (Fig. 1).
(4) Remove nut, washer, bolt and wheel alignment
cam attaching the lateral arms to the rear crossmem-
ber (Fig. 1).
(5) Remove the lateral arms from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Both lateral arms when being installed,
must be specifically positioned and orientated on
the vehicle. The lateral arm that has the same size
bushing sleeves on both ends must be mounted on
the forward side of the crossmember and knuckle
with the trimmed outer edge facing rearward. This
front arm is also marked with the word ªFOR-
WARDº. The side of the arm displaying this must
face forward.
The lateral arm with two different size bushing
sleeves must be mounted on the rearward side of
the crossmember and knuckle. Position the smaller
bushing sleeve end at the knuckle and the larger
bushing sleeve end at the rear crossmember (the
larger bushing sleeve is necessary to accommodate
the rear wheel alignment adjustment cam). If the
rear arm is to be mounted on the right side, the
trimmed outer edge must face rearward. If the rear
arm is to be mounted on the left side, the trimmed
outer edge must face forward.
(1) Following the note above, place the forward lat-
eral arm against the leading end of the knuckle, and
then install the short lateral arm mounting bolt with
a washer through the lateral arm and knuckle and
out the trailing end of the knuckle (Fig. 1).
(2) Following the note above, install the small
bushing sleeved end of the rear lateral arm onto the
end of the bolt just installed through the knuckle
(Fig. 1). Install a washer and nut onto the end of the
mounting bolt, but do not completely tighten the bolt
at this time.(3) Install a wheel alignment adjustment cam on
the long arm mounting bolt.
(4) Hold the rear lateral arm up against the cross-
member and install the long mounting bolt with the
adjustment cam through the lateral arm bushing and
rear crossmember (Fig. 1). The bolt must be installed
with the notch in the adjustment cam pointing
straight up.
(5) Position the forward lateral arm against the
rear crossmember hole. Pass the long mounting bolt
through the lateral arm bushing sleeve.
(6) Install a washer and nut onto the end of lateral
arm mounting bolt at the rear crossmember, but do
not completely tighten the bolt at this time.
NOTE: Once installed, each lateral arm should have
the bow in its length facing downward. Both right
side arms should have the trimmed outer edge fac-
ing toward the rear of the car. Left side arms should
have the trimmed outer edge facing each other. The
mounting bolt at the knuckle should have the nut at
the rear and the mounting bolt at the crossmember
should have the nut at the front (Fig. 13).
(7) Install tire and wheel assembly on the vehicle.
Tighten the wheel mounting nuts in proper sequence
until all nuts are torqued to half specification.
Repeat the tightening sequence to the full specified
torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle to the ground.
(9) With suspension at curb height, tighten the lat-
eral arm mounting bolt nut at the knuckle to 95 N´m
(70 ft. lbs.).
Fig. 13 Lateral Arms
1 ± REAR STABILIZER BAR
2 ± REAR LATERAL ARMS
3 ± RIGHT FRONT LATERAL ARM
4 ± LEFT FRONT LATERAL ARM
PLSUSPENSION 2 - 45
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

(10) With suspension at curb height, tighten the
lateral arm mounting bolt nut at the crossmember to
88 N´m (65 ft. lbs.).
(11) Set the rear toe on the vehicle to the required
specification as necessary. Refer to WHEEL ALIGN-
MENT in this service manual group.
TENSION STRUT
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove the rear wheel and tire assembly from
the vehicle.
(3) Disconnect the tension strut from the knuckle.
To do this, first hold the tension strut from turning
by using a wrench on the flat on the tension strut
and then remove the nut from the rear of the tension
strut (Fig. 14). Next, remove the tension strut
retainer, then the rear tension strut bayonet bushing
from the tension strut.
(4) Remove the nut attaching the parking brake
cable to the stud on the inboard tension strut mount-
ing bolt at the frame (Fig. 15). Remove the parking
brake cable from the stud.
(5) Remove the two mounting bolts holding the
tension bolts to the frame, then remove the tension
strut from the vehicle.(6) Remove the forward bayonet bushing and
retainer from the tension strut.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the forward retainer and a bayonet
bushing on the tension strut trailing end. Be sure the
stepped area of the bushing is installed to face the
knuckle.
(2) To install the knuckle on the tension, first stick
the trailing end through the hole in the lower end of
the knuckle, seating the bayonet bushing squarely
against the hole. Next, raise the end of the tension
strut with the spool bushing into its mounting posi-
tion on the frame (Fig. 15). Install the mounting
bolts securing the tension strut to the frame.
Remember, the mounting bolt with the stud on the
head is installed on the inboard side.
(3) Tighten the two mounting bolts at the frame to
a torque of 95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
(4) Place the parking brake cable routing bracket
on the stud of the inboard mounting bolt and install
the nut securing it in place (Fig. 15). Tighten the nut
to a torque of 28 N´m (250 in. lbs.).
(5) Install the rear bayonet bushing on the tension
strut. Be sure the stepped area of the bushing is
squarely seated into the hole in the knuckle.
(6) Install the rear tension strut retainer, then the
nut. To completely install the nut, place a wrench on
the flat formed into the tension strut and tighten the
nut (Fig. 14). Tighten the nut to a torque of 95 N´m
(70 ft. lbs.).
(7) Install the tire and wheel assembly. Tighten
the wheel mounting nuts in proper sequence until all
Fig. 14 Tension Strut Nut Removal/Installation
1 ± KNUCKLE
2 ± TENSION STRUT
3 ± FLAT
Fig. 15 Tension Strut Mounting At Frame
1 ± TENSION STRUT MOUNTING BOLTS
2 ± TENSION STRUT
3 ± SPOOL BUSHING
4 ± NUT
5 ± PARKING BRAKE CABLE
2 - 46 SUSPENSIONPL
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

nuts are torqued to half specification. Repeat the
tightening sequence, this time, to full specified
torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle to ground level.
(9) Set the rear toe on the vehicle to the required
specification if necessary. Refer to WHEEL ALIGN-
MENT in this service manual group.
STABILIZER BAR (REAR)
NOTE: Before proceeding with this procedure,
review SERVICE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS at the
beginning of REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section.
REMOVAL
(1) Raise the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING in the
LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE group for the
proper lifting procedure.
(2) Remove both rear wheel and tire assemblies
from the vehicle.
(3) Remove the nut from the end of each rear sta-
bilizer bar link bolt (Fig. 16). Pull the bolt out
through the top of the link and remove the link from
each end of the stabilizer bar.
(4) Remove the two bolts securing each of the two
cushion retainers to the frame rails (Fig. 1), then
remove the cushion retainers, cushions and stabilizer
bar from the vehicle as an assembly.
(5) Pull the cushion retainers off the cushions.
(6) The cushions can be removed from the bar by
utilizing the pre-formed slit in each cushion and peel-
ing it off the bar.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the cushions on the stabilizer bar by
opening the slit in the cushion and wrapping the
cushion around the bar. When installed properly, the
slit in the cushion should face in the same direction
as the ends of the stabilizer bar, or toward the front
of the car once the bar is installed. The flat side of
each cushion should face upward.
(2) Install the retainers on the cushions, matching
the contour of each retainer with its cushion.
(3) Install the stabilizer bar, cushions and retain-
ers on the car as an assembly. The dipped area in the
center of the bar must face down to clear the well in
the luggage compartment.
(4) Install two bolts in each cushion retainer and
secure the stabilizer bar to the frame of the vehicle
(Fig. 1). Do not completely install the bolts at this
time.
(5) Reinstall each stabilizer bar link (Fig. 1):
²Place the link center sleeve and bushings
between the eye in the end of the stabilizer bar and
the link mounting bracket on the strut.
²Start the stabilizer bar link bolt with bushing
from the top, down through the stabilizer bar, inner
link bushings and sleeve, and strut link mounting
bracket.
²Install a lower bushing, then the nut. Do not
tighten the nut at this time.
(6) Install both tire and wheel assemblies on the
vehicle. Tighten the wheel mounting stud nuts in
proper sequence until all nuts are torqued to half
specification. Repeat the tightening sequence, this
time, to full specified torque of 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(7) Lower the vehicle to ground level or curb
height.
(8) Tighten the rear stabilizer bar cushion retainer
bolts to a torque of 34 N´m (300 in. lbs.).
(9) Tighten the stabilizer bar link nuts to a torque
of 23 N´m (200 in. lbs.).
(10) Set the rear toe on the vehicle to the required
specification if necessary. Refer to WHEEL ALIGN-
MENT in this service manual group.
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
STRUT ASSEMBLY (REAR)
The strut assembly must be removed from the
vehicle for it to be disassembled and assembled.
Refer to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in this
section for the required procedure.
For the disassembly and assembly of the strut
assembly, use strut spring compressor, Pentastar Ser-
vice Equipment (PSE) tool W-7200, or the equivalent,
to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufactur-
er's instructions closely.
Fig. 16 Stabilizer Bar Link
1 ± BRAKE HOSE BRACKET SCREW
2 ± STABILIZER BAR LINK
3 ± NUT
4 ± STRUT ASSEMBLY
PLSUSPENSION 2 - 47
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)

DISASSEMBLY
(1) If both struts are being serviced at the same
time, mark the coil spring and strut assembly accord-
ing to which side of the vehicle the strut was
removed from, and which strut the coil spring was
removed from.
(2) Position the strut assembly in the strut coil
spring compressor following the manufacturers
instructions. Set the lower, then upper hooks on the
coil spring (Fig. 17). Position the strut clevis bracket
straight inward toward the compressor. Place a
clamp on the lower end of the coil spring, so the strut
is held in place once the strut shaft nut is removed.
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE STRUT SHAFT
NUT BEFORE THE COIL SPRING IS COMPRESSED.
THE COIL SPRING IS HELD UNDER PRESSURE
AND MUST BE COMPRESSED, REMOVING SPRING
TENSION FROM THE UPPER MOUNT AND PIVOT
BEARING, BEFORE THE SHAFT NUT IS REMOVED.
(3) Compress the coil spring until all coil spring
tension is removed from the upper mount.(4) Once the spring is sufficiently compressed,
install Strut Nut Socket, Special Tool 6864, on the
strut shaft retaining nut (Fig. 18). Next, install a
socket on the hex on the end of the strut shaft. While
holding the strut shaft from turning, remove the nut
from the strut shaft.
(5) Remove the upper mount from the strut shaft
(Fig. 19).
(6) Remove the clamp from the bottom of the coil
spring and remove the strut out through the bottom
of the coil spring.
(7) Remove the dust shield, then the jounce
bumper from the strut shaft by pulling each straight
up (Fig. 19).
(8) Remove the lower spring isolator from the
lower spring seat located on the strut.
NOTE: If the coil spring needs to be serviced, pro-
ceed with the next step, otherwise, proceed with
step 10.
NOTE: Before removing the coil spring from the
compressor, make not of its position in the com-
pressor, for easy reassembly.
(9) Release the tension from the coil spring by
backing off the compressor drive completely. Push
back the compressor hooks and remove the coil
spring.
(10) Inspect the strut assembly components for the
following and replace as necessary:
²Inspect the strut for any condition of shaft bind-
ing over the full stroke of the shaft.
²Inspect the jounce bumper for cracks and signs
of deterioration.
Fig. 17 Strut Assembly In Compressor
1 ± UPPER HOOKS
2 ± COIL SPRING
3 ± CLEVIS BRACKET
4 ± CLAMP
5 ± LOWER HOOKS
Fig. 18 Shaft Nut Removal/Installation
1 ± UPPER MOUNT
2 ± FRONT HOOK
2 - 48 SUSPENSIONPL
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY (Continued)