Jack FIAT PUNTO 1996 176 / 1.G Service Manual

8*2 Driveshafts
f Outboard CV joint 3 Driveshaft 6 Flange 2 Gaiter clip A Garter 6 Inboard CV ioint
1.2 Intermediate driveshaft • turbo diesel models 1 Bearing flange 3 Washer S Retaining plate 2 Bearing A Circllp
2.S Extracting the driveshaft from the hub (arrowed) from the CV joint at the carrier transmission
The joints are protected by rubber g&itcrs and are packed with grease, to orovktt permanent lubrication. If wear Is detected in the joint. It can be detached from lii» driveshaft and renewed. Normally, the CV joints do not require additional lubrication, unless they havo been overhauled or lfi» rubber gaiters have been damaged, allotting the greasa to become contaminated. Rater
to
Chapter 1A or 1B for guidance In checking the condition of the driveshaft gaiters. Bolh driveshafts are splined at their outer ends, to accept the wheel hubs, ond ate threaded so that the hubs can be fastened to the driveshafts by means of a large, staked nut.
2 Driveshafts -removal and refitting & ^
Note: A balljoint separator tool will b» required for this operation. A new drivestnf, nut and tmck-rod end nut should be used
on
refitting. In addition, new lower arm
baHj&ot
nuts should be used. Removal 1 Chock the rear wheels, apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of tha vehicle and support on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove th« appropriate roadwheel(6). 2 The front hub must be held stationary
m
order to loosen the driveshaft nut. Ideally, M hub should be held by a suitable tool bolted Into placo using two of the roadwheel nuts, Alternatively, havo an assistant firmly apply the brake pedal to prevent the hub from rotating. Using e socket and extension bar, slacken and remove the driveshaft nut. Recover the washer (where fitted).

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Warning: The nut Is extremely tight. Discard the nut - a new
one
must be used on refitting. 3 Remove the locking clip and extract the brake caliper hydraulic hose (and where applicable, the brake pad wear indicator cable) from the bracket on the base of the suspension strut. 4 With reference to Chapter 10, Section 3. unbolt the base of the suspension strut from Ihe top of the hub carrier. 5 Temporarily refit the driveshaft nut to the end of the driveshaft, to prevent damage to the driveshaft threads, then using a solt-faced mallet, carefully tap the driveshaft from the hub carrier (see illustration). If the shaft is a tight fit, a suitable hub puller can be used to force the end of the shaft from the hub. Support tha end of the driveshaft • do not allow the end o the driveshaft to hang down as this svill strain the joint components and gaiters. 6 Proceed as follows, according to which driveshaft is to be removed. All models except turbo diesels 7 Remove the driveshaft gaiter clip from the CV joint at the transmission (see Illustration)

I
8*4 Driveshafts
3.3 Using pair of circlip pliers, expand the circlip that holds the driveshaft in place
Turbo diesel models 4 Mark the relationship between the joint and the driveshaft using a scriber or a dab of paint. Attach a slide hammer to the dnveshaft nut thread. 5 Draw the joint off the driveshaft using the slide hammer, Use just enough effort to overcome the tension of the internal circlip.
Inboard CV joint removal All models except turbo dieseis 6 Al the inboard end of the driveshaft. use a hammer and centre punch to mark the relationship between Ihe shaft and |olnt. Remove the circlip with a pair of circlip pliers, then using a three-legged puller if required, draw Ihe tripod joint off the end of the driveshaft. Ensure that the legs of Ihe puller bear upon the cast centre section of the joint, not the roller beanngs (see illustration) Turbo diesel models 7 Al the inboard end of Ihe driveshaft. use a hammer and centre punch lo mark the relationship between the shaft and joint. Remove the circlip with a pair of circlip pliers, then carefully slide the CV joint from the end ot the shaft. Take great care to prevenl the
cage and bail bearings from falling out • secure the joint components together with wire or a nylon cable-tie. 8 Remove the washer then slide the flange from the end of the shaft.
Inspection 9 Slide both rubber gaiters off the driveshaft and discard them: It is recommended that new ones are fitted on reassembly as a matter of course. Recover the flexible washers (where fitted), making a note of their fitted positions, to aid correct refitting later. 10 Thoroughly clean the driveshaft splines, and CV joint components with paraffin or a suitable solvent, taking care not to destroy any alignment marks made during removal. 11 Examine Ihe CV joint components for wear and damage: in particular, check the balls and corresponding grooves for pitting and corrosion. If evidence of wear Is visible, then the joint must be renewed. Note that if the outboard CV joint Is to be renewed on turbo diesel models, it must be matched to the driveshaft using the colour-coded paint markings. 12 Where applicable, examine the tripod joint components for wear. Check thai the three rollers are free lo rotate without resistance and are not worn, damaged or corroded. The rollers are supported by arrays of needle bearings: wear or damage will show up as play In the rollers and/or roughness in rotation. If wear is discovered, the tnpod joint must be renewed. 13 Fit a new rubber gaiter (and where applicable, flexible washer) to the inboard end of the driveshaft and secure it In place on the shaft with a clip (see illustration).
Inboard CV joint - refitting
All models except turbo dieseis 14 Using Ihe alignment marks made during removal, fit the tripod joint onto the splines of the driveshaft. Tap It Into position using a soft faced mallet. To ensure that the tripod Joint rollers and driveshaft splines are not damaged, use a socket with an internal diameter slightly larger than I hat of the driveshafl as a drift. Refit the circlip. 15 Slide the gaiter over tho tripod joint and pack the gaiter with grease from the service kit.
3.6 Draw the tripod joint off the end of the driveshaft 3.13 FH s new rubber gaiter to the inboard end of the driveshaft and secure It in place with a clip
Caution: Do not allow grease to come
into
contact with vehicles paintwork, es discolouring may rasutt. Turbo diesel models 16 Slide the flange and washer onto the end of the shaft, then fit the joint Into position on the driveshaft splines, using the alignment marks made during removal. Fit the circlip. ' 17 Pack the gaiter with grease from His service kit, then slide the gaiter over the joint. Briefly lift the lip of the gaiter to expel ail the air from the joint, then secure the gaiter over the joint with a new clip. Caution: Do not allow grease to come
Into
contact with the vehicle's paintwork, as discolouring may result.
Outboard CV joint - refitting 18 Fit a new rubber gaiter to the outboard end of the driveshaft and secure it place with a dp, 19 Pack the CV joint with grease from Ihe service kit, pushing It into the ball grooves and expelling any air that may be trapped underneath. 20 Lubricate the splines of the drive shaft with a smear of grease, then whilst splaying the circlip open with a pair ot circlip pile*, insert the driveshaft into CV joint, observing the alignment marks made during removal. Note: On turbo diesel models, the circlip snaps into the CV Joint groove as Ifte driveshaft is inserted - no circlip pliers are required. Ensure that the circlip snaps securely Into place: pull on the shaft to check that it is held firmly In position. 21 Pack additional grease Into the joint to displace any air pockets, then slide the rubber gaiter over the joint. Briefly lift the lip ol the gaiter to expel all the air from Ihe joint, then secure it In place with a clip. 22 Refit the driveshaft (see Section 2).
4 Intermediate driveshaft - % removal and refitting J;
Note 1: This procedure applies only to turbo diesel engined models. Note 2: The intermediate shaft and
bearing
are not available as separate spares and cac only be renewed as a comptefe assembly.
Removal 1 Firmly apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of Ihe car and support It securely
on
axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the appropriate roadwheei(s). 2 Unbolt the inboard end of the right*hand driveshaft from the intermediate shaft
flange, as
described In Section 2. Suspend the dis-connected end of the driveshaft from a conven-ient point on the subframe, using wire or a cable-tie. to avoid straining the joint and gaiter. 3 Drain the oil from the transmission, with reference to Chapter 1B.

9*2 Braking system
2.3a Release tho locking clip ...
1 General information
The braking system is of the vacuum servo-assisted. dual-circuit hydraulic type. The arrangement of Ihe hydraulic system is such that each circuit operates one front ond ono rear brake from a tandem master cylinder. Under normal circumstances, both circuits operate In unison However, in the event of hydraulic failure in one circuit, lull braking force will still be available at two diagonally-opposite wheels. All models covered in this manual are fitted with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. The front disc brakes are aotuated by single-piston sliding lype calipers, which ensure lhat equal pressure is applied to each brake pad. The rear drum brakes incorporate leading and trailing shoes, which are actuated by twin-piston wheel cylinders. A self-adjust mechanism is incorporated, to automatically compensate for brako shoe wear. As the brake shoe linings wear, the footbrnke operation automatically operates the adjuster mechanism, which effectively lengthens the shoe strut and repositions the brake shoes, to remove the llning-to-drum clearance. The mechanical handbrake linkage operates the brake shoos via a lever attached to the trailing brake shoe.
2.3b ... and remove the pad wear indicator wiring and brake fluid line from the suspension strut Load sensitive proportioning valves operate on the rear brake hydraulic circuits, to prevent the possibility of the rear wheels locking before the front wheels under heavy braking. Note: When servicing any part of the system, work carefully and methodically; also observe scmpulous cleanliness when overhauling any part of the hydraulic sysiem. Always renew components (in axle sets, where applicable) if In doubt about their condition, and use only genuine Fiat replacement parts, or at least those of known good quality. Note the warnings given in Safety first and at relevant points in this Chapter concerning fhe dangers of asoestos dust and hydraulic fluid.
Models with anti-lock braking system (ABS) Available as an option on certain models, the anti-lock braking system prevents skidding which not only optimises stopping distances but allows full steering control to be maintained under maximum braking. By electronically monitoring the speed of each roadwheel in relation to the other wneete, Ihe system can detect when a wheel is about to lock-up, before control is actually lost. The brake fluid pressure applied to that wheel's brake caliper is then decreased and restored (or modulated) several times a second until control
£s
regained. The system components comprise an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), four wheel speed sensors, a hydraulic unit, brake lines and dashboard mounted warning lamps.
The hydraulic unit incorporates a tandem master cylinder, a valve block which modulates the pressure in the brake hydrauli: circuits during ABS operation, an accumulator which provides a supply of highly pressursed brake fluid, a hydraulic pump to charge Ihe accumulator and an integral electronic control unit (ECU). The four wheel sensors are mounted on the wheel hubs. The ECU uses the signals produced by the sensors to calculate Ihe rotational speed of each wheel, The ECU has a self-diagnostic capability and will inhibit the operation of the ABS il a fault is detected, lighting the dashboard mounted warning lamp. The braking system will then revert lo conventional. non-ABS operation. II the nature of the laull ie not immediately obvious upon inspection, the vehicle must be taken to a Fiat dealer, who will have the diagnostic equipment
required
lo interrogate the ABS ECU electronically and pin-point the problem
2 Front brake pads - & renewal S

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Warning: Renew BOTH sets ol front brake pads at the same
time
- NEVER renew the pads on
only
one wheel, as uneven braking may result

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Warning: Note that the dust created by wear of the pads
may
contain asbestos, which is a health hazard. Never blow It out with compressed air, and don't inhale any of
it.
An approved filtering mask should be worn when working on the brakes. DO NOT use petrol or petroleum-based solvents to clean brake parts; use proprietary braks cleaner or methylated spirit only. 1 Firmly apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of the car and support it securely
on
axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle supporti. Remove the front roadwheeis. 2 Wording on one side of the vehicle, puth the caliper piston into its bore by pulling the caliper outwards. If necessary, press the piston back into its bore using a large G-clamp or a piston retraction tool. Keep a careful eye on the level of brake llufd in Ihe I reservoir as you do this - ensure that the
level
I does not rise above the MAX marking. 3 Whore applicable, release the locking dp and remove the pad wear indicator
wiring end
brake fluid line from the bracket at Ihe
base of
the suspension strut (see illustrations).
Petrol models without ABS 4 Remove the locking clip and exlracl the lower guide pin from the caliper (see illustrations) 5 Pivot the caliper body upwards and support In position with a length of wire or a cabie-fc. Avoid straining the hydraulic hose.
2,4a Remove the locking clip ... 2.4b ... and extract the lower guide pin from the caliper (petrol models without ABS)

9*4 Braking system
3.5 Unscrew the caliper upper guide pin bolt and remove tho caliper body (torn the bracket
3 Front brake caliper -removal, overhaul and refitting ^

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Warning: Before starting work, refer to the warnings at the beginning of Sections 2 and 11 concerning the dangers of handling asbestos dust and hydraulic fluid.
Removal 1 Chock the rear wheels, apply the handbrake, then |ack up the front of the vehicle and support it on axle stands {see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the appropriate front roadwheel. 2 Remove the brake pads as described In Section 2. 3 To minimise fluid loss dunng the following operations, remove the master cylinder reservoir cap. then
tig hi en
it down onto a piece of polythene, to obtain an airtight seat. Alternatively, use a brake hose clamp to seal off the flexible hose running to the caliper.

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Warning: Do not use an ordinary G-clamp or mole grips for this purpose, as these can easily damage the hydraulic hose Internally, possibly leading to failure. 4 Clean the area surrounding the brake hose union, then slacken ft using a ring spanner. It won't be possible to separate the union completely without twisting the hose ai this slage.
3.7 Unscrew the two securing bolts (arrowed) and remove the caliper mounting bracket from the hub carrier
5 On petrol models without ABS, unscrew the caliper upper guide pin bolt using a hex bit or Allen key and remove the caliper body from the bracket (see illustration). 6 Hold the brake hose and rotate the caliper to unscrew the hose union from the caliper body. Cover the open ends of the union and the caliper fluid inlet, to prevent dirt Ingress. Alternatively, Ihe flexible brake hose may be separated from the rigid brake pipe, at the bracket mounted on the Inner wheel arch. 7 If desired, the caliper mounting bracket can be removed from the hub carrier after unscrewing ihe two securing bolts (see Illustration) but note that locking compound must be applied to the bolt threads on refitting.
Overhaul Note: Before commencing work, ensure that the appropriate caliper overhaul kit
Ss
obtained. 8 With the caliper on the bench, wipe away all (races of dust and dirt, but avoid inhaling the dust, as It
Is
a health hazard. 9 Place a small block of wood between the caliper body and tho piston, to act as padding. Remove the piston by applying a Jet of low pressure compressed air (such as that pioduced by a tyre foot pump) to the fluid inlel port.

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Warning: Protect your hands and eyes when using compressed air In this manner • brake fluid moy be ejected under pressure when the pisfon pops out of Its bore. 10 Peel the dusi seal from the piston, then use a soft, blunt instrument (ie not a screwdriver) to extract the piston seal from the caliper bore. 11 Thoroughly clean all components, U9tng only methylated spint or clean hydraulic fluid, Never use mineral-based solvents such as petrol or paraffin, which will attack Ihe hydraulic system rubber components. 12 The caliper piston seal, the dust seal and the bleed nipple dust cap, a/e oniy available as part of a seat kit. Since the manufacturers recommend that the piston seal and dust seal are renewed whenever they are disturbed, all of these components should be discarded on disassembly and new ones fitted on reassembly as a matter of course. 13 Carefully examine all parts of the caliper assembly, looking for signs of wear or damage. In particular, the cylinder bore and piston must be free from any signs of scratches, corrosion or wear. If there is any doubt about ihe condition of any part of the caliper, the relevant port should be renewed Note that the piston surface is plated, and must not be polished with emery or similar abrasives to remove corrosion or scratches. In addition, the pistons are matched to the caliper bores and can only be renewed as a part of a complete caliper assembly. 14 Check that the threads in the caliper body and the mounting bracket are in good condition, Check that both guide pins are
undamaged, and (when cleaned) a reasons^' tight sliding fit In the mounting bracket bores. 15 UsecompressedairtOblow clear the IkuJ passages. Warning: Wear eye protection when using compressed
air.
16 Before commencing reassembly, en$vr« that all components are spotlessly-clean
and
dry. 17 Soak the new piston seal m clean hydraulic fluid, and fit it to the groove
In
tftt cylinder bore, using your fingers only (rift tools) to manipulate it into place. 18 Fit the new dust seal inner ftp to tne cylinder groove, smear clean hydraulic Hud over the piston and caliper cylinder
bore, and
twist ihe pfaton into the dust seal. Press tne piston squarely Into the cylinder, then sildt the dust seal outer lip to tho groove in we piston
Refitting 19 Where applicable, refit the caliper mounting bracket to thB hub earner. Ccaitto threads ol the mounting bolts with locking compound, then tighten them to the speclfed torque. 20 Hold the brake hose and rotate Ihe calip* to screw the hose union back Into the caliper body. 21 On petrol models without ABS, place the caliper In position on the bracket and tighter the caliper upper guide pin bolt to the specified torque. 22 Relit ihe brake pads as described m Section 2. 23 On all models, tighten the brake hose-to-callper union securely. 24 Check that the caliper slides smoothly
on
its guide pins. 25 Where applicable, remove the polytbste from the master oyhnder rasarvoir cap, or remove tho clomp from the fluid hose, ai applicable. 26 Bleed tho hydraulic fluid circuit as desenbed m Section 11. Note that if rootMf part of the system has been disturbed, < should only be necessary to bleed tha relevant front circuit, 27 Depress the brake pedal repeatedly to bring ihe pads into contact with ihe brake disc, and ensure that normal pedal
pressure is
restored. 28 Refit the roadwheel, and lower tha veti'cfc lo ihe ground.
4 Brake disc -
inspection,
removal
and
refitting
Inspection 1 Firmly apply the handbrake, then jaefcup the front of the car and support It securely
oft
axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle
support1,.
Remove the front roadwhesls.
expert22 f
a http://rutracker.org

Braking system 9®7
5JJc ... and disconnect the handbrake cable from the brake shoe lever
5.14a Lower return spring fitted in place
12 Fit the self-adjuster mechanism Into the recess in the trailing brake shoe and anchor the retaining spring in the slot provided in the shoe (see Illustration). 13 Fit the leading shoe In position on the backpiste and secure it with the hold down pin. spring and cup as described for the trailing shoe. Engage the end of'the self-adjuster mechanism with the recess In the leading brake shoe. Hook the retaining spring into the slot provided. 14 Fit the upper and lower shoe return spnngs. engaging them with the slots In the shoes as shown (see illustrations). Remove
me
elastic band from the wheel cylinder. 15 Turn Ihe serrated wheel at the end of the self-adjuster mechanism, to retract the brake shoes - this will give additional clearance to ilow Ihe drum to pass over the shoes during refitting. 16 Repeat the procedure on the remaining tide of the vehicle. 17 Refit the brake drums as described in Section 6. Check and if necessary adjust the operation of the handbrake, as described in Section 9. IB Apply the brake pedal and handbrake 'ever several times to settle the self-adjusting mechanism. With both rear roadwheels rsfitted and Ihe rear of the vehicle still raised, turn Ihe wheels by hand to check that the take shoes are not binding. 19 Lower the vehicle to the ground and thoroughly check the operation of the braking system.
5.10 Apply brake grease sparingly to the shoe contact surfaces (arrowed) of the brake backplate
5.14b Correct location of upper return spring In leading shoe...
6 Rear brake drums -removal, inspection and refitting ^

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Warning: Before starting work, refer to the warning at the beginning of Section 2 concerning the dangers of asbestos dust Removal 1 Chock the front wheels, then jack up the roar of the vehicle and support it on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the appropriate rear roadwheel. Fully release the handbrake. 2 If the original drum is to be refitted, mark the relationship between the drum and the hub. Slacken and remove the two locating studs and pull the drum from the hub (see illustration).
6.2 Slacken and remove the two drum locating studs
5.12 Fit the self-adjuster mechanism into the recess (arrowed) in the trailing brake shoe
5.14c ... and trailing shoe
3 If the drum is binding on Ihe brake shoes, it can be drawn off as follows. Hold the drum still and turn the hub so that the drum and hub flange bolt holes no longer line up. Screw two bofts into the locating stud threaded holes In tho drum, and progressively lighten them against the hub llange to push the drum from the hub (see illustration).
Inspection Note: If either drum requires renewal, BOTH should be renewed at the same time, to ensure even and consistent braking. New brake shoes should also be fitted. 4 Working carefully, remove all traces of brake dust from the drum, but avoid Inhaling the dust, as it is a health hazard. 5 Clean the outside of the drum, and check it for obvious signs of wear or damage, such as cracks around the roadwheel stud holes; renew the drum if necessary.
6.3 Using two bolts to draw the drum off the brake shoes

Braking system 9®9
6.8 Brake light switch assembly f Hexagonal' 3 Spacer section 4 Mounting bracket 2 Bush S Locating lug 6 Twist the switch anti-clockwise through about half a turn, and withdraw the switch from the pedal bracket. Note the position of the spacer and fitting bush.
10.3a Prise the bung (arrowed) from the access hatch in the rear of the relevant brake backplate
10.3b Unhook the cable end from the brake shoe lever (arrowed)
Refitting 7 Depress the brake pedal and hold it in this position. 8 Fit the bush and spacer over the end of the switch, then Insert the switch Into its mounting bracket. Rotate the switch body clockwise through 60° until the locating lug is felt to engage in its recess (seo illustration). 9 Release the brake pedal and allow It to rest against the switch spacer tab - this adjusts the position of the switch body Inside Ihe bush. 10 Now depress the brake pedal again - this has the effect of breaking off the spacer tab and fixes the position of the switch Inside the bush. 11 Restore Ihe wiring at the connector, then refit the facia lower trim panel. 12 Switch on the ignition and test the operation of the brake lights.
9 Handbrake - ^ checking and adjustment
Checking 1 Apply the handbrake by pulling it through three to four clicks of the ratchet mechanism and check that this locks the rear wheels, holding the vehicle stationary on an incline. In this position, there should be sufficient reserve travel in the handbrake lever to allow for brako shoe wear and cable stretching. If not. Ihe handbrake mechanism Is need of adjustment.
Adjustment 2 Remove the securing screws and lift off the handbrake lever trim cover - refer to Chapter 11. Section 19. for details. 3 Pull the handbrake lever through three clicks of the ratchet mechanism and leave it in this position. 4 The adjustment mechanism is underneath the handbrake lever. Hold the locknut with a ring spanner, then rotate the adjustment screw through one turn anticlockwise, so that the adjustment mechanism tensions the handbrake cable draw bar (see illustration). 5 Release the handbrake lever, then re-apply
10.5a Unscrew the bolts (arrowed) securing the handbrake cable bracket to the suspension lower arm
the handbrake it and check the operation of the handbrake as described in paragraph 1. Repeat the adjustment procedure as necessary. 6 Chock the front wheels then |ack up the rear of the car and support it on axle stands (see Jacking and Vehicle Support). Release the handbrake lever and check that the rear wheels are free to rotate v/ithout binding. Re-adjust the cable if the brakes appear to be binding. 7 On completion, tighten the cable locknut and refit the handbrake lever trim cover. Lower the car to the ground.
10 Handbrake cables -removal and refitting
Removal 1 There are two rear handbrake cables, one on each side of the vehicle. To renew either rear cable, proceed as follows. 2 Chock the front wheels, then jack up the rear of tho vehicle and support securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Release the handbrake fully, 3 Working under the rear of the car, prise the bung from the access hatch in the rear of the relevant brake backplato, Using pointed-nose pliers, compress the cable spring and release the cable end from the brake shoe lever (see Illustrations). 4 Extract the handbrake outer cable from the brake backplate. then withdraw the end of the cable from the brake assembly. 5 Unscrew the nuts and bolts securing the handbrake cable bracket to the suspension lower arm. Release the cable from the clips on the floorpan heatshield (see Illustrations).
10.5b Release the cable from the clips (arrowed) on the floorpsn heatshield

9*10 Braking system
10.6 Disconnect the relevant handbrake inner cable (arrowed) from the draw bar 6 Working inside ihe vehicle, remove Ihe screws and lift off the handbrake lever trim panel (refer to Section 9 for more detail). At the base of the handbrake lever, full/ slacken off the handbrake adjusting screw and locknut, to remove oil tension from the cable draw bar, then disconnect the relevant handbrake inner cable from the cable draw bar (see illustration) 7 Release the cable grommet from tho floor-pan, then withdraw the cable from the vehicle.
Refitting 8 Refitting Is a reversal of removal, bearing in mind the following points: a) Ensure that the cables are securely fastened In the clips on the floorpan beetshield and lower suspension a/m. b) On completion, check the handbrake adiustment, as described in Section 9.
11 Hydraulic system -bleeding

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Warning: Hydraulic fluid is poisonous; wash off immediately and thoroughly In the case ot skin contact, and seek immediate medical advice if any fluid is swallowed, or gets into the eyes. Certain types of hydraulic fluid are Inflammable, and may ignite when allowed into contact with hot components. When servicing any hydraulic system, it Is safest to assume that the fluid IS inflammable, and to take precautions
11.17 Bleeding a rear brake line
against the risk of fire as though it is petrol that Is being handled. Hydraulic fluid is also an effective paint stripper, and will attack plastics; If any is spilt, It should be washed off immediately, using copious quantities of fresh water. Finally, it Is hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture from the air) • old fluid may be contaminated and unfit tor further use. Whan topping-up or renewing the fluid, always use the recommended type, and ensure that It comes from a freshly-opened sealed container.
General 1 The correct operation of any hydraulic system is only possible after removing all air from the components and circuit; and this Is achieved by bleeding the syslem. 2 During the bleeding procedure, add only clean, unused hydraulic fluid of the recommended type; never re-use fluid that has already been bled from the system. Ensure that sufficient fluid is available before starting work. 3 If there is any possibility of incorrect fluid being already in the system, the brake com-ponents and circuit must be Flushed completely with uncontamlnated, correct fluid, and new seals should be fitted throughout the system. 4 If hydraulic fluid has been lost from the system, or air has ontered because of a leak, ensure that the fault is cured before proceeding further. 5 Park Ihe vehicle on level ground, switch off the engine and select first or reverse gear (or P), then chock the wheels and release the handbrake. 6 Cheek that all pipes and hoses are secure, unions tight and bleed screws closed. Remove Ihe dust caps (whore applicable), and clean any dirt from around the bleed screws. 7 Unscrew the master cylinder reservoir cap, and top Ihe master cylinder reservoir up to the MAX level line; refit the cap loosely. Rememoer to maintain the fluid level at least above the MIN level line throughout the procedure, otherwise there is a risk of further air entering the syslem. 8 There are a number of one-man. do-It-yourself brake bleeding kits currently available from motor accessory shops. It is recommended that one of these kits is used whenever possible, as they greatly simplify the bleeding operation, and also reduce the risk of expelled air and fluid being drawn back into the system. If such a kit is not available, the basic (two-man) method must be used, which is described in detail below. 9 If a kit Is to be used, prepare the vehicle as described previously, and follow the kit manufacturer's instructions, as Ihe procedure may vary slightly according to the type being used; generally, they are as outlined below in the relevant sub-section. 10 Whichever method is used, the same sequence must be followed (paragraphs 11 and 12) to ensure Ihe removal of all air from the system.
Bleeding sequence 11 If Ihe system has been only
partial!?
disconnected, and suitable precautions wwe taken to minimise fluid loss, it should be necessary to bteod only that part of the system (le the primary or secondary circuit). 12 If the complete system Is to be bled, then It should be done working in the following sequence: a) Left-hand rear wheel b) Right-hand front wheel. c) Right-hand rear wheel. d) Left-hand front wheel. Note: When bleeding the rear brakes
on a
vehicle ritled with load proportioning valves: i the rear of the vehicle has been jacked
up to
allow access to ihe brake wheel cylinder,
tha
rear suspension must be compressed
(eg
raising the beam axle with a trolley
jack) so
that the load proportioning valves
remain open
throughout the bleeding process.
Bleeding -basic (two~man) method 13 Collect a clean glass jar, a suitable length of plastic or rubber tubing which Is a light fit over the bleed screw, end a ring spanner lo
Rt
the screw. The help of an assistant will also tie required. 14 Remove the dust cap from the first screw In the sequence if not already done. Fit a suitable spanner and tube to the screw, place the other end of Ihe tube In the jar. and
pour in
sufficient fluid to cover the end of the tube. 15 Ensure that the master cylinder reservoir fluid level is maintained at least above the
MIN
level line throughout the procedure. 16 Have the assistant fully depress the brefce pedal several times to build up pressure, then maintain it on the final downstroke. 17 While pedal pressure is maintained, unscrew ihe bleed screw (approximately one turn) and allow the compressed fluid and orto flow into the
Jar,
The assistant should maintah pedal pressure, following the pedal down to the floor if necessary, and should not rrtaase Ihe pedal until instructed to do so. When ihe flow stops, tighten the bleed screw again, have the assistant retease the pedal sfowty, and recheck the reservoir fluid level (see Illustration). 18 Repeat Ihe steps given in paragraphs 16 end 17 until the fluid emerging from the bled screw is free from air bubbles. If Ihe master cylinder has been drained and refilled,
and
at Is being bled from the first screw In the sequence, allow approximately five seconds between cycles for the master cylinder passages to refill. 19 When no more air bubbles appear, tighter, the bleed screw securely, remove Ihe tube arc spanner, and refit the dust cap (where applicable). Do not overtighten the bleed sew. 20 Repeat the procedure on tho remaining screws In the sequence, until ail air is removed from the system, and the brake pedal feels firm again.

Suspension and steering 10*2
Torque wrench settings (continued) Nm ibt ft Rasr suspension Damper lower securing bolt 95 70 Damper upper securing bolt 60 44 Handbrake cable support bracket-to-trailing arm screws 15 11 Hub nut 280 207 Trailing arm securing bolt 150 111 Steering Ignition switch/steering column lock securing bolts 4 3 Steering column mounting bolts 55 41 Steering gear mounting bolts 70 52 Steering wheel nut' 50 37 Subframe-to-body bolts 110 81 Track-rod end to hub carrier 40 30 Unlversaijointclampbolts 20 15 Roadwheels Roadwheel bolts 85 63 * Use a new nut
1 General information
Front suspension The front suspension is independent, comprising transverse lower wishbones, coil spring-over-damper strut units and an anti-roll bar. The hub carriors are bolted to the base of the stmt units and are linked to the lower arms by means ot balliotnts. The entire front suspension assembly is mounted on a subframe, which is In turn botted to the vehicle body.
Rear suspension The rear suspension incorporates a torsion beam axle, trailing arms, coil springs and separate telescopic dampers. In addition, a rear anil-roll bar is fitted to certain models. The components form a discrete sub-assembly which can be unboiled from the underside of the vehicle separately or as a complete unit.
Steering The two-piece steering shaft runs in a tubular column assembly, which is bolted to a bracket mounted on the vehicles bulkhead. The shaft Is articulated at its lower end by means of a universal Joint, which is clamped to the steering shaft and the steering gear pinion by moans of clamp bolts. The steering gear is mounted on the engine compartment bulkhead, and is connected to the steering arms projecting rearwards from Ihe hub carriers. The track-rods are fitted with balljoints at their inner and outer ends, to allow for suspension movement, and are threaded to facilitate ad|ustment. Hydrauiically-assisted power steering ts fittod to some models. The hydraulic system is powered by a belt-driven servo pump, which is driven from the crankshaft pulley.
Certain models are fitted with an airbag system. Sensors built into the vehicle body are triggered in the event of a front end collision and prompt an Electronic Control Unll (ECU) to activate the airbag, mounted In the centre of the steering wheel and the facia. This reduces the risk of the front seat occupants striking the steering wheel, windscreen or facia during an accident.

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Warning: For safety reasons, owners are strongty advised to entrust to an authorised Flat dealer any work which involves disturbing the airbag system components. The airbag inflation devices contain explosive material and legislation exists to control their handling and storage, in addition, specialised test equipment Is needed to check that the airbag system Is fully operational following reassembly.
2 Front hub bearings -renewal *
Note: A balljoint separator tool, and a press or suitable alternative tools (see text) will be required for this operation. The bearing will be destroyed during the removal procedure.
Removal 1 Chock the rear wheels, apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the appropriate roadwheel. 2 Remove the brake disc and caliper, with reference to Chapter 9. Note that the caliper body can remain bolted to its bracket: there is no need lo disconnect the brake fluid hose from the caliper. 3 With reference to Chapter 8. slacken and remove the driveshaft hub nut. 4 On models with ABS, unbolt the ABS wheel sensor, and remove the screw securing the
ABS sensor wiring to the hub carrier. Suspend the sensor away from the working ares, to avoid the possibility of damage. 5 With reference to Section 17, separate
th»
track-rod end from the hub carrier, using
a
suitable balljoint splitter. 6 Remove the two nuts from tho botts securing Ihe hub carrier to the base of th» suspension strut (refer to Section
3).
Withdrew the bolts and separate the top of hub earrtt from the strut. 7 Disconnect the outboard end of Ito driveshaft from the hub, as described durirg the driveshaft removal and refitting procedm in Chapter 8. Note: There is no naod fo disconnect the Inboard end of the
drivestett
from the transmission. Caution: Do not allow the end of tin driveshaft to hang down under its
own
weight, as this places strain on the
CV
joints; support the end of the shaft uskg wire or string. 8 Slacken and remove the nut and clamp bolt, then push the lower arm down anc separate the balljoint from the base of the tab carrier (see illustrations). 9 At this stage, it is recommended that
the bub
carrier be taken to a engineering workshop,
as
the hub and bearing should ideally be removed from the hub carrier using a hydraulic press
2.8a ... Slacken and remove the nut...

Suspension and steering 10*4
3.2 Release the brake fluid line (and where applicable, the pad wear/ABS sensor wiring) from the strut
3 Front suspension strut -removal, overhaul and refitting *

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Warning: If renewing the Strut damper during overhaul both the left and right hand dampers should be renewed as a pair, to preserve the handling characteristics of the vehicle.
Removal 1 Chock the resr wheels, apply the handbrake, then jack up the fronl of the vehicle and support securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the relevant roadwheel. 2 Release the brake fluid line (and wnere
3.3a Remove the two bolts (arrowed)...
applicable, the pad wear/ABS sensor wiring) from Ihe bracket on the base of the strut (see illustration). 3 Remove the two nuts from Ihe bolts securing the lower end of the strut to the hub carrier, noting that the nuls fit on the rear side of the strut (see illustrations). Withdraw the bolts, and support the hub carrier. Discard the bolts and nuts • new ones should be used on refitting. 4 Have an assistant support the strut from underneath the wheel arch then, working In the engine compartment, unscrew the two bolts and release the two stud clips that secure the strut upper mounting plate to the suspension turret. Do not unscrew the centre damper rod nut yet. Release the lower end ol the strut from the hub carrier, then withdraw the assembly from under the wheel arch.
3.7 Fully unsorew and remove tho damper rod top nut 3.3a Withdraw the washer.
3.3b ... and detach the lower end of the strut from the hub carrier
Overhaul Note: Suitable coil spring compressor fools will be required for this operation, and a
new
damper rod top nut must be used on reassembly. 5 Clamp Ihe lower end of Ihe strut in a vice fitted with jaw protectors - take care to avois deforming the mounting bracket at the lower end of the strut. Remove the protective plastic cap from the top of the strut. 6 Fit suitable spring compressors to the coil spring, and compress Ihe spring sutllciently to enable the upper spring seat to be turned by nand.

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Warning: Ensure that the coil spring Is compressed sufficiently to remove all the tension from
tha
upper spring seat, before attempting to remove the damper rod nut. 7 Fully unscrew and remove the damper rod top nut. Countorhofd the domper rod. using
a
suitable Allen key or hex bit. as tho nut * unscrewed • do not allow the rod to rotate inside the damper (see Illustration). Discard the nut • a new one must be used on reassembly. 8 Withdraw tho washer, bush, upper mounting plate and upper spring seat • make a careful note of the order of assembly (see illustrations). 9 Withdraw the spring, complete with the compressors, thon v/ithdraw the dust cover, bump rubber and Ihe lower spring seat rubber (where fitted) (see illustrations).

Suspension and steering 10*6
hub earner, then fit the securing bolts and nuts, noting that the nuts fit on the rear side of the strut, and tighten to the specified torque (see illustrations). 20 Refit the brake fluid line to the bracket on Ihe base of the strut. 21 Where applicable, press the ABS wheel sensor winng into its retaining bracket. 22 Refit the roadwheel. and lower the vehicle to the ground.
4 Front suspension lower arm - removal and refitting 3.19a Fit the securing bolts, noting that the nuts fit on the rear side of the strut...
Removal 1 Chock the rear wheels, apply the handbrake, then jack up the front of the vehicle and support securely on axle stands (see Jacking and vehicle support). Remove the relevant roadwheel. 2 Unscrew the bolts securing the anti-roll bar mountings to the suspension lower arms on either side ot Ihe vehicle. Similarly, unscrew the bolts securing the anti-roll bar mountings to the suspension sub-frame (see illust-rations). Allow the ends of the anti-roll bar to pivot away from the suspension lower arms. 3 With reference to Section 2, unscrew Ihe nut. withdraw the clamp bolt and lever the end of the suspension lower arm down to release it from the base of the hub carrier.
4.2s Unscrew the bolts (arrowed) securing the anti-roll bar mountings to tho suspension lower arms...
4 Unscrow the two bolts and detach the suspension arm rear mounting bracket from the subframe (see Illustration). 5 Slacken and remove the nut from the through-bolt at the lower arm front mounting (seo illustration). Withdraw the bolt. 6 Withdraw Ihe suspension lower arm from under the vehicle. 7 With the lower arm removed, examine the lower arm Itself, and the mounting bushes, for wear, cracks or damage. S Check the balljoint for wear, excessive play, or stiffness. Also check Ihe balljoint dust boot for cracks or damage. 9 The mounting bushes and balljoint assembly are integral with the lower arm. and cannot be renewed independently. If either the bushes or the balljoint are worn or damaged, the complete lower arm assembly must be renewed.
Refitting Caution: Final tightening of all fixings must be carried out with the vehicle resting on Its wheels, or damage to the rubbor bushes will result 10 Offer the suspension arm up lo Its mountings. Fit the through-bolt to the front mounting bracket and engage it with the suspension arm bush. Fit Ihe securing nut. but do not fully tighten it at this stage.
. and tho suspension sub-frame (arrowed) 4.4 Unscrew the two bolts (arrowed) and detaoh the suspension arm rear mounting bracket from the subframe
3.19b ... and tighten them to the specified torque
11 Bolt Ihe rear mounting bracket to the subframe, but do not fully tighten the bolts a! this stage, 12 Engage the lower arm balljoint svith ifia hub carrier, then refii the balljoint clamp boll and nut. Do not fully tighten the nut at this stage. 13 Raise the anti-roll bar into position. Itan bolt the mounting brackets to the subfrarra The anti-roll bar must be pre-loaded before lis outer mounting brackets can be bolted to the suspension arms. Do this by raising tha erds of the anti-roll bar with a trolley jack and holding them in this position whilst the bracket mounting bolts are inserted and hand tightened. Do not fully tighten the bolls at trts stage, line up the holes at the ends of the anti-roll bar with those on the suspension lower arm. 14 Refit the roadwheel, and lower the vehrcfe to the ground. 15 Make sure that the vehicle is parked on level ground, then release the handbrake. Red the vehicle backwards and forwards, arc bounce the front of the vehicle to settle the suspension components. 16 Chock the wheels, then tighten all lit* anti-roll bar and suspension arm mounting nuts and bolts to the specified torque 17 On completion the front wheel alignment should be chocked by a Fiat dealer.
4.5 Slacken and romove tho nut (arrowed! from the through-bolt at the lower arm front mounting