Alignment Spec Sponsored by:
2002-2010 Jeep Liberty
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April 2013 | BrakeandFrontEnd.com
he Jeep Liberty (2002-2007 KJ+2008-2010 KK) was the replacement for the Cherokee (XJ). The major changes from the Cherokee to the Liberty were an independent front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension. Compared to the Cherokee, the Liberty is actually easier to align. WARNING: On 2008-2010 KK models, the front knuckles are aluminum and the ball joints and tie-rod ends need to be torqued and turned an additional 90 degrees. The upper ball joint and tie-rod have a torque spec of 30 ft/lbs. Lower ball joints have a torque spec of 40 ft/lbs. Failure to follow the proper torque procedure will result in damage to the knuckle. Instead of having to install off-
set ball joints and shims to adjust camber and caster, the adjustments are performed with the cam bolts in the lower control arms. The rear is not adjustable. Overall, the Liberty is an easy vehicle to align. But, pay attention during the initial inspection.
FRONT SUSPENSION The Liberty’s front suspension uses upper and lower control arms. The replacement of the upper control arms can be tedious and require the removal of battery tray, power distribution center and other components to get at the passenger side upper control arm. If serviced, the control arms