wheel DODGE RAM 1999 Service Repair Manual
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: DODGE, Model Year: 1999, Model line: RAM, Model: DODGE RAM 1999Pages: 1691, PDF Size: 40.34 MB
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* S TE ER IN G U NIF O RM IN SPEC TIO N G UID ELIN ES *
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Steering, Suspension, Wheel Alignment, Wheels and Tires
Motorist Assurance Program
Standards For Automotive Repair
All Makes and Models
INTRODUCTION TO MOTORIST ASSURANCE PROGRAM (MAP)
CONTENTS
Motorist Assurance Program (MAP)
OVERVIEW
OVERVIEW OF SERVICE REQUIREMENTS & SUGGESTIONS
Steering and Suspension
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - AIR SHOCKS AND AIR STRUTS
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - AIR SPRING VALVES
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - AIR SPRINGS
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - COMPRESSORS
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - HEIGHT SENSORS
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - MODULES
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - RELAYS (COMPRESSOR)
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - SWITCHES (ON/OFF)
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - TORSION SPRINGS (COUNTER BALANCING)
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - TUBING
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - WARNING LAMPS
AIR RIDE SUSPENSION - WIRING HARNESSES
BALL JOINTS
BUSHINGS
CENTER LINKS
CONTROL ARM SHAFTS
CONTROL ARMS
DRAG LINKS
ELECTRONIC RIDE CONTROL SHOCKS AND STRUTS
IDLER ARMS
KING PINS
PITMAN ARMS
POWER STEERING HOSES
POWER STEERING (HYDRAULIC) PUMPS
RADIUS ARMS
RELAY RODS
SHOCK ABSORBERS, STRUT CARTRIDGES AND STRUT ASSEMBLIES
SPINDLES
SPRINGS - COIL, LEAF AND TORSION BAR
STEEL POWER STEERING LINES
STEERING ARMS
STEERING DAMPERS
STEERING GEARS (EXCEPT RACK AND PINION)
STEERING GEARS - RACK AND PINION
STEERING KNUCKLES
STRIKE OUT BUMPERS
STRUT RODS
STRUT UPPER BEARING PLATE ASSEMBLIES
SWAY BAR LINKS
SWAY BARS
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TIE ROD ENDS (INNER AND OUTER)
TRACK BARS
TRAILING ARMS
WHEEL BEARINGS, RACES AND SEALS
Wheel Alignment
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Wheels and Tires
TIRES
VALVE STEMS
WHEEL ATTACHMENT HARDWARE
WHEELS (RIMS)
MOTORIST ASSURANCE PROGRAM (MAP)
OVERVIEW
The Motorist Assurance Program is the consumer outreach
effort of the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association, Inc.
(AMRA). Participation in the Motorist Assurance Program is drawn from
retailers, suppliers, independent repair facilities, vehicle
manufacturers and industry associations.
Our organization's mission is to strengthen the relationship
between the consumer and the auto repair industry. We produce
materials that give motorists the information and encouragement to
take greater responsibility for their vehicles-through proper,
manufacturer-recommended, maintenance. We encourage participating
service and repair shops (including franchisees and dealers) to adopt
1) a Pledge of Assurance to their Customers and 2) the Motorist
Assurance Program Standards of Service. All participating service
providers have agreed to subscribe to this Pledge and to adhere to the
promulgated Standards of Service demonstrating to their customers that
they are serious about customer satisfaction.
These Standards of Service require that an inspection of the
vehicle's (problem) system be made and the results communicated to the\
customer according to industry standards. Given that the industry did
not have such standards, the Motorist Assurance Program successfully
promulgated industry inspection communication standards in 1994-95 for
the following systems: Exhaust, Brakes, ABS, Steering and Suspension,
Engine Maintenance and Performance, HVAC, and Electrical Systems.
Further, revisions to all of these inspection communication standards
are continually re-published. In addition to these, standards for
Drive Train and Transmissions have recently been promulgated.
Participating shops utilize these Uniform Inspection & Communication
Standards as part of the inspection process and for communicating
their findings to their customers.
The Motorist Assurance Program continues to work
cooperatively and proactively with government agencies and consumer
groups toward solutions that both benefit the customer and are
mutually acceptable to both regulators and industry. We maintain the
belief that industry must retain control over how we conduct our
business, and we must be viewed as part of the solution and not part
of the problem. Meetings with state and other government officials
(and their representatives), concerned with auto repair and/or
consumer protection, are conducted. Feedback from these sessions is
brought back to the association, and the program adjusted as needed.
To assure auto repair customers recourse if they were not
satisfied with a repair transaction, the Motorist Assurance Program
offers mediation and arbitration through MAP/BBB-CARE and other non-
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profit organizations. MAP conducted pilot programs in twelve states
before announcing the program nationally in October, 1998. During the
pilots, participating repair shops demonstrated their adherence to the
Pledge and Standards and agreed to follow the UICS in communicating
the results of their inspection to their customers. To put some
"teeth" in the program, an accreditation requirement for shops was
initiated. The requirements are stringent, and a self-policing method
has been incorporated which includes the "mystery shopping" of
outlets.
We welcome you to join us as we continue our outreach... with
your support, both the automotive repair industry and your customers
will reap the benefits. Please visit MAP at our Internet site www.
motorist.org or contact us at:
1444 I Street, NW Suite 700
Washington, DC 20005
Phone (202) 712-9042 Fax (202) 216-9646
January 1999
MAP UNIFORM INSPECTION GENERAL GUIDELINES
OVERVIEW OF SERVICE REQUIREMENTS & SUGGESTIONS
It is MAP policy that all exhaust, brake, steering,
suspension, wheel alignment, drive-line, engine performance and
maintenance, and heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and
electrical services be offered and performed under the standards and
procedures specified in these sections.
Before any service is performed on a vehicle, an inspection
of the appropriate system must be performed. The results of this
inspection must be explained to the customer and documented on an
inspection form. The condition of the vehicle and its components will
indicate what services/part replacements may be "Required" or
"Suggested". In addition, suggestions may be made to satisfy the
requests expressed by the customer.
When a component is suggested or required to be repaired or
replaced, the decision to repair or replace must be made in the
customer's best interest, and at his or her choice given the options
available.
This section lists the various parts and conditions that
indicate a required or suggested service or part replacement.
Although this list is extensive, it is not fully inclusive. In
addition to this list, a technician may make a suggestion. However,
any suggestions must be based on substantial and informed experience,
or the vehicle manufacturer's recommended service interval and must be
documented.
Some conditions indicate that service or part replacement is
required because the part in question is no longer providing the
function for which it is intended, does not meet a vehicle
manufacturer's design specification or is missing.
Example:
An exhaust pipe has corroded severely and has a hole in it
through which exhaust gases are leaking. Replacement of the
exhaust pipe in this case is required due to functional
failure.
Example:
A brake rotor has been worn to the point where it measures
less than the vehicle manufacturer's discard specifications.
Replacement of the rotor is required because it does not meet
design specifications.
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(1) - Require replacement of units where dents restrict shock
or strut piston rod movement. If dents don't restrict
movement, no service is suggested or required. Especially
critical on mono-tube shocks.
( 2) - This condition can lead to damage of the piston rod,
which, in turn, causes premature piston rod seal wear.
( 3) - Only required if replacing cartridge.
( 4) - CAUTION: If the strut cartridge has been replaced previously,
the oil on the strut housing may be filler oil. The
technician must identify the source of the oil.
( 5) - If noise is isolated to shock or strut, suggest
replacement.
( 6) - Although shocks or struts may have contributed to tire
cupping, an inspection is needed of the entire suspension
system. If the shock or strut is found to be contributing
to the tire cupping, require replacement.
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SPINDLES
SPINDLE INSPECTION \
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Condition Code Procedure
Attaching hardware
broken ................. A ... Require replacement of broken
part.
Attaching hardware
loose .................. A ... Require repair or replacement
of loose part.
Attaching hardware
missing ................ C .. Require replacement of missing
part.
Attaching hardware
threads damaged ........ A ... Require repair or replacement
of part with damaged threads.
Attaching hardware
threads stripped
(threads missing) ...... A ..... Require replacement of part
with stripped threads.
Bent .................... B ............ Require replacement.
Broken .................. A ............ Require replacement.
Race seat area
undersized ............. B ............ Require replacement.
Scored .................. A .. Require repair or replacement.
Threads damaged ......... A .. Require repair or replacement.
Threads stripped (threads
missing) ............... A ............ Require replacement.
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SPRINGS - COIL, LEAF AND TORSION BAR
When springs are replaced, it is suggested, but not required,
that both springs on an axle be replaced to maintain equal height from
side to side and to provide a balanced ride and proper handling.
When variable rate springs are installed in place of
conventional coil springs, they must be installed in axle sets to
ensure proper handling, uniform ride, and proper chassis height.
Erroneous height measurements may result from: improper tire
inflation, non-standard tire or wheel size, and heavy load in vehicle
or trunk.
SPRING (COIL, LEAF AND TORSION BAR) INSPECTION
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otherwise, replace trailing
arm.
Attaching hardware
missing ................ C .. Require replacement of missing
part, if available; otherwise,
replace trailing arm.
Attaching hardware
threads damaged ........ A ... Require repair or replacement
of part with damaged threads,
if available; otherwise,
replace trailing arm.
Attaching hardware
threads stripped
(threads missing) ...... A ..... Require replacement of part
with stripped threads, if
available; otherwise, replace
trailing arm.
Bent .................... B ............ Require replacement.
Bushing hole oversized .. B ............ Require replacement.
Corroded, affecting
structural integrity ... A ............ Require replacement.
Holes distorted ......... A ............ Require replacement.
Threads damaged ......... A .. Require repair or replacement.
Threads stripped
(threads missing) ...... A ............ Require replacement.
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WHEEL BEARINGS, RACES AND SEALS
NOTE: When replacing or repacking wheel bearings, grease seal
replacement is required. You are not required to replace
these components in axle sets. Determine the need to
replace based upon the individual component conditions
that follow.
WHEEL BEARING, RACE AND SEAL INSPECTION
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Condition Code Procedure
Rear axle seal on rear-
wheel drive leaking .... A ..... Require replacement of seal
and inspection of axle,
bearing, housing,
and vent tube.
Seal bent ............... 1 ............ Suggest replacement.
Seal leaking ............ A . Require replacement of seal and
inspection of bearings.
Seal missing ............ C ............ Require replacement.
Seal torn ............... A ............ Require replacement.
Wheel bearing
assembly feels rough
when rotated ........... A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing balls
are pitted ............. A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing balls
are worn ............... A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing end-play
exceeds vehicle
manufacturer's
specifications ......... B .. Require adjustment of bearing,
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if possible. If proper
adjustment cannot be obtained,
require repair or replacement
of worn component.
Wheel bearing race
is loose in the
hub bore ............... A ...... Require replacement of hub
assembly and wheel bearings.
Wheel bearing races
are pitted ............. A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing races
are worn ............... A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing rollers
are pitted ............. A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
Wheel bearing rollers
are worn ............... A .. Require replacement of bearing
assembly.
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WHEEL ALIGNMENT
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Wheel alignment is defined as the measurement, analysis, and
adjustment of steering and suspension angles to conform to OEM
specifications. These angles usually include, but are not limited to:
caster, camber, toe, and thrust angle. Where these angles are not
adjustable and not in specification, component replacement or
correction kits may be required. Errors in set-back and steering axis
inclination (SAI) are often attributable to failed or damaged
components and must be corrected prior to performing an alignment.
Failure to replace or correct suggested parts or service may
prevent a proper alignment.
Before performing an alignment check, inspect and verify the
following:
* Tire pressure and size
* Vehicle loading
* Ride height
* Steering and suspension parts
If the inspection reveals that all the above are within
published specifications, a wheel alignment check and an alignment, if
needed, may be performed.
CAUTION: Under no circumstances should a technician bend or heat
any steering or suspension component, unless specified by
the vehicle manufacturer, for example, Ford forged twin
"I" beam axles. All measurements and specifications must
be noted on the inspection report.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION
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Condition Code Procedure
Dog tracking, shown
to be caused by
faulty alignment ....... 2 ................ Suggest repair.
Lead, shown to
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be caused by
faulty alignment ....... A ............. Require alignment.
Part has been changed,
affecting alignment .... A ....... Require alignment check.
Pull, shown to be caused
by faulty alignment .... A ............. Require alignment.
Steering wheel
off-center ............. 2 ............. Suggest alignment.
Tire wear, shown
to be caused by
faulty alignment ....... A ............. Require alignment.
Wander, shown
to be caused by
faulty alignment ....... A ............. Require alignment.
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WHEELS AND TIRES
TIRES
These guidelines do not apply to split rims. Some vehicle
manufacturers restrict replacement of tires to specific brands, types,
or sizes.
WARNING: High pressure temporary compact spare tires should not be
used with any other rims or wheels, nor should standard
tires, snow tires, wheel covers, or trim rings be used
with high pressure compact spare rims or wheels.
Attempting to mount a tire of one diameter on a wheel of
a different diameter or flange type may result in serious
injury or death.
WARNING: Only specially trained persons should dismount or mount
tires. Explosions of tire and wheel assembly can result
from improper mounting, possibly causing serious injury
or death.
WARNING: Consult the vehicle owner's manual or vehicle placard for
correct size, speed rating, designation, and cold
inflation pressure of the original tires. DO NOT exceed
the maximum load or inflation capacity of the tire
specified by the Tire and Rim Association
WARNING: When replacing tires, it is suggested that the
replacement tires match or exceed the OEM speed rating
designation. If tires of different speed rating
designations are mixed on the same vehicle, the tires may
vary in handling characteristics. DO NOT mix different
speed rating designations on the same axle.
WARNING: DO NOT mix radials with non-radial tires on the same
axle, as this may affect vehicle handling and stability.
If radial tires and bias or bias-belted ply tires are
mixed on the same vehicle, the radials must be on the
rear. High-pressure temporary compact spare tires are
exempt from this rule.
WARNING: DO NOT mix size or type (all season, performance, mud and
snow) of tires on the same axle.
TIRE INSPECTION
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Condition Code Procedure
Air pressure incorrect .. B .................. Require repair
Bead broken ............. A ............ Require replacement.
Bead leaking, caused
by tire ................ A .. Require repair or replacement.
Bead wire/cord exposed .. A ............ Require replacement.
Cord or belt material
exposed ................ A ............ Require replacement.
Cord ply separations .... A ............ Require replacement.
Directional/asymmetrical
tires mounted
incorrectly ............ B ....... Require remounting and/or
repositioning.
Irregular tread wear,
affecting performance .. 2 ........ (1) Suggest replacement.
Load ratings less
than OEM
specifications ......... B ............ Require replacement.
Mixed tread types (all
season, performance, mud
and snow) on same axle . A ............ Require replacement.
Number of punctures
exceeds manufacturer's
limit .................. B ............ Require replacement.
Out of balance .......... B . Require rebalance of tire/wheel
assembly.
Ply separation .......... A ............ Require replacement.
Pull or lead, caused
by tire ................ A .. Require repair or replacement.
Radial and bias or
bias-belted ply tires
on same axle ........... B .. Require repair or replacement.
Radials are on the front
and not on the rear .... B ........... ( 2) Require repair or
replacement.
Run flat damage ......... A ............ Require replacement.
Shoulder cut ............ A ............ Require replacement.
Shoulder puncture ....... A ............ Require replacement.
Shoulder with plug ...... A ............ Require replacement.
Sidewall bulge .......... A ............ Require replacement.
Sidewall cut ............ A ............ Require replacement.
Sidewall indentation .... .. ......... No service required or
suggested.
Sidewall puncture ....... A ............ Require replacement.
Sidewall with plug ...... A ............ Require replacement.
Speed rating
designations
different
on same axle ........... 2 .. Suggest repair or replacement.
Tire and wheel assembly
has excessive run-out .. B ........... ( 3) Require repair or
replacement of appropriate
part.
Tires with more than
1/4" diameter difference
on a four-wheel drive
vehicle ................ B ............ Require replacement.
Tread area puncture larger
in diameter than
manufacturer's
specifications ......... B ............ Require replacement.
Tread missing pieces
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(chunking),
exposing cord .......... A ............ Require replacement.
Tread missing pieces
(chunking), not
exposing cord .......... 1 ............ Suggest replacement.
Tread separations A ............ Require replacement.
Tube in tubeless tire 3 .... (4) Suggest removal of tube.
Weather-checking ........ .. ......... No service required or
suggested.
Worn to tread wear
indicators ............. B ............ Require replacement.
( 1) - Determine and correct cause of irregular tire wear.
( 2) - If radials and bias or bias-belted ply tires are on the
same vehicle, the radials must be on the rear axle,
except for high-pressure temporary spares.
( 3) - Excessive is defined as enough to contribute to
performance problems. Match mounting may correct
run-out. If not, require replacement of appropriate
part. Refer to manufacturer's specifications.
( 4) - Most manufacturers do not recommend tubes in tubeless
tires. Inspect tire and wheel assembly to determine
the reason for a tube in tubeless tire. Recommendation
for repair or replacement should be based upon condition
of tires and/or wheel listed in these guidelines.
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VALVE STEMS
VALVE STEM INSPECTION \
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Condition Code Procedure
Bent .................... 1 ........... Suggest replacement.
Broken .................. A ........... Require replacement.
Cut, but not leaking .... 1 ........... Suggest replacement.
Deteriorated
(cracking, dry rot) .... 1 ........... Suggest replacement.
Leaking ................. A . Require repair or replacement.
Missing ................. C ........... Require replacement.
Threads damaged ......... A . Require repair or replacement.
Threads stripped ........ A ........... Require replacement.
Valve cap missing ....... C .... Require replacement of cap.
Weather-checking ........ 1 ........... Suggest replacement.
Won't take air .......... A . Require repair or replacement.
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WHEEL ATTACHMENT HARDWARE
For conditions noted below, also check conditions of wheel
stud holes.
CAUTION: Proper lug nut torque is essential. Follow recommended
torque specifications and tightening sequence. DO NOT
lubricate threads unless specified by the vehicle
manufacturer.
WHEEL ATTACHMENT HARDWARE INSPECTION
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Condition Code Procedure
Bent .................... A ............ Require replacement.
Broken .................. A ........ ( 1) Require replacement.
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Loose ................... B ... Require repair or replacement
of affected component.
Lug nut installed
backward ............... B .. Require repair or replacement.
Lug nut mating type
incorrect .............. B ..... Require replacement of nut.
Lug nut mating surface
dished ................. A ..... Require replacement of nut.
Lug nut rounded ......... A . (2) Require replacement of nut.
Lug nut seized .......... A . ( 2) Require replacement of nut.
Stud incorrect .......... B .... Require replacement of stud.
Threads damaged ......... A ... Require repair or replacement
of component with damaged
threads.
Threads stripped ........ A .......... Require replacement of
component with stripped
threads.
( 1) - Some manufacturers require replacement of all studs on
that wheel if two or more studs or nuts on the same
wheel are broken or missing.
( 2) - Only required if removing wheel.
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WHEELS (RIMS)
WARNING: Mounting a regular tire on a high-pressure compact spare
wheel is not permitted. Attempting to mount a tire of one
diameter on a wheel of a different diameter or flange
type may result in serious injury or death. If the wheel
identification stamp is not legible, or cannot be found,
do not use the wheel until the size and type have been
properly identified. Wheels of different diameter,
offset, or width cannot be mixed on the same axle. Bead
seat tapers cannot be interchanged.
WHEEL (RIM) INSPECTION
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Condition Code Procedure
Bead leaking, caused
by wheel ............... A ........... ( 1) Require repair or
replacement.
Bent hub mounting
surface ................ A ............ Require replacement.
Bent rim, causing
vibration .............. 2 ........ ( 1) Suggest replacement.
Broken .................. A ............ Require replacement.
Cast wheel porous,
causing a leak ......... A .. Require repair or replacement.
Clip-on balance weight is
incorrect type
for rim flange ......... 2 ............ Suggest replacement.
Corrosion, affecting
structural integrity ... A ............ Require replacement.
Corrosion build-up on
wheel mounting
surface ................ A ................. Require repair.
Cracked ................. A ............ Require replacement.
Directional/asymmetrical
wheels mounted
incorrectly ............ B ....... Require remounting and/or
repositioning.