Rear Suspension - Spring Link - Removal

SPRING LINK

1. Raise and support vehicle. Service and Repair
2. Access and remove rear spring. Rear Suspension - Coil Spring(s) - Removal





3. Export Only - If servicing right spring link, disconnect headlamp leveling sensor (1) link at spring link (3).





4. Remove spring link-to-knuckle nut and bolt (2).






CAUTION: It important to use Guide (2), Special Tool 9361-2, when tapping sleeve in knuckle to help keep Tap (1) , Special Tool 9361-1, straight during use or damage to Tap may occur.

5. Place Guide 9361-2 (2) against sleeve (3) in knuckle to keep Tap 9361-1 (1) straight. Using Tap with an appropriate handle, cut threads approximately halfway through bushing (or about six complete threads). It is important to back tap out, clean out burrs and lubricate Tap often during process.






NOTE: Prior to using Special Tool 9361, lubricate Bolt (1) threads to provide ease of use and promote tool longevity.

6. Assemble Remover, Special Tool 9361, as shown.
- (1) Bolt 9361-3
- (2) Nut
- (3) Spherical Washer
- (4) Thrust Bearing
- (5) Sleeve 9361-4 (RWD)
- (5) Sleeve 9361-5 (AWD - Left Side)
- (5) Sleeve 9361-6 (AWD - Right Side)

NOTE: When installing thrust bearing on Remover, be sure to place hardened side against nut. Place bearing outer cage against stationary component.

NOTE: It is important to use appropriate Sleeve on Remover to provide proper Tool-to-Knuckle contact. RWD sleeve can be used on either side while AWD knuckles require specific left or right side Sleeves.






7. Thread Remover Bolt 9361-3 (1) into tapped knuckle sleeve.
8. Rotate Nut down, matching Sleeve angled end with angled face of knuckle.
9. Continue to rotate Nut until knuckle sleeve is removed from knuckle. Discard knuckle sleeve; replace it with new upon installation.





10. Remove bolt and nut (1) fastening spring link (4) to crossmember.
11. Remove spring link (4).