operators_manual

WARNING!
Do not operate the vehicle if the suspension
U bolts are not properly tightened. Loose U
bolts will cause the axle to not be properly
secured to the suspension, which could
cause loss of vehicle control and an acci-
dent. Loose U bolts can also cause uneven
tire wear and poor alignment. Failure to
comply may result in death, personal injury,
equipment or property damage.
WARNING!
Failure to maintain the specified torque val-
ues or to replace worn parts can cause
component system failure, possibly resulting
in an accident. Improperly tightened (loose)
suspension U bolts can lead to unsafe vehi-
cle conditions, including: hard steering, axle
misalignment, spring breakage or abnormal
tire wear. Failure to comply may result in
death, personal injury, equipment or proper-
ty damage.
CAUTION
Do not spray the suspension with chemical
products or mineral oil; it can cause damage
to the bushings.
NOTE
Failure to follow these recommendations
could void warranty.
Visual Inspection
For all vehicles, mandatory maintenance
procedures include retightening of U-bolts
and complete inspection. However, even
with proper maintenance, many factors
affect the service life of springs and
suspension components, such as: fatigue,
vehicle gross weight, type of load, road
conditions, and vehicle speed. It is
important that U-bolts remain tight. Severe
use of your vehicle can cause them to
loosen faster. But all vehicles need to have
their U-bolts checked and tightened
regularly. Be sure someone with the proper
training and the right tools checks and
tightens the U-bolts on your vehicle. After
the first 500 miles (800 km) of operation,
inspect the suspension periodically, as
noted below:
• Visually check for loose or missing
fasteners, cracks in hanger, or axle
connection brackets.
• Check that springs are centered in
hangers and in good condition.
• Check for cracks, wear marks,
splits, or other defects on the
surface of the spring.
• Replace defective parts. Because
repaired springs cannot be fully
restored to their original service life,
replace the complete assembly if
cracks or other defects are
detected.
• After replacement of any part or
discovery of loose components,
check the torque of all fasteners.
• New springs settle-in after the
vehicle's initial service, causing the
U-bolts to become loose.
Rear Suspension Fasteners
To maintain the performance of the air
suspension, check fastener torque values
after the first 2,000 miles (3,218 km) of
service and every 60,000 miles (96,000
km) thereafter. Torque recommendations
apply to fasteners supplied and installed by
MAINTENANCE - Rear Axle and Suspension
202 Y53-6096-1A1 (01/17)
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