Suspension The following suspension system components should be inspected periodically to ensure proper operation. A. Shock absorber rods bent, pitted, or damaged. B. Rubber damper cracked, broken, or missing. C. Shock absorber body damaged, punctured, or leaking. D. Shock absorber eyelets broken, bent, or cracked. E. Shock absorber eyelet bushings worn, deteriorated, cracked, or missing. F. Shock absorber spring broken or sagging.
PR913
4. Note the current pre-load setting; then adjust the spring to the full-soft setting. Using a suitable spring compression stand, compress the shock absorber spring, remove the retainer, and remove the spring.
! WARNING
G. Sway bar mountings tight and bushings secure.
Shock Absorbers
Shock absorber springs are under high compression loads. Do not attempt to remove springs without an adequate spring compressor. Sever injury could result.
REMOVING
1. Secure the vehicle on a support stand to elevate the wheels and to release load on the suspension.
! WARNING Make sure the vehicle is solidly supported on the support stand to avoid injury.
2. Remove the two cap screws and nuts securing each front shock absorber to the frame and upper A-arm. Account for bushings and sleeves from each. HDX336
CLEANING AND INSPECTING
1. Clean all shock absorber components in parts-cleaning solvent. 2. Inspect each shock rod for nicks, pits, rust, bends, and oily residue. 3. Inspect all springs, spring retainers, shock rods, sleeves, bushings, shock bodies, and eyelets for cracks, leaks, and bends. INSTALLING PR911
CAUTION Additional support stands are necessary to support the rear axle when the shock absorbers are removed or damage may occur.
3. Remove the two cap screws and nuts securing each rear shock absorber to the frame and lower A-arm. Account for bushings and sleeves from each.
1. Place the shock absorber spring over the shock absorber, compress the spring, and install the retainer. 2. Place bushings and sleeves (where appropriate) into shock eyelet; then install shocks with two cap screws and nuts. 3. Tighten the shock absorber cap screws to 42 ft-lb. 4. Remove the vehicle from the support stand.
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