operators_manual

vehicle manufacture. The values listed in
the at the back of this chapter
(Specification Reference Charts), are for
cadmium plated or phosphate and oil
fasteners only. U-bolts are difficult to
tighten unless you have the right
equipment. If you cannot tighten them
correctly yourself, be sure to have them
checked and tightened regularly by an
authorized mechanic.
Rear Suspension U-Bolts
NOTE
To ensure an accurate torque reading, use
properly maintained and calibrated torque
wrenches. Clean the nut and bolt. No dirt,
grit, or rust should be present.
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.
NOTE
Whenever possible, torque all frame fasten-
ers on the nut end, not the bolt head.
Load the vehicle to its normal gross weight
before tightening U-bolts. Loading the
vehicle ensures proper adjustment of the
U-bolt and spring assembly.
WARNING!
Do not replace U bolts and nuts with com-
mon U bolts or standard nuts. These parts
are critical to vehicle safety. If the wrong U
bolts or nuts are used, the axle could loosen
or separate from the vehicle and cause a
serious accident. Use only U bolts and nuts
of SAE Grade 8 specification or better. Fail-
ure to comply may result in death, personal
injury, equipment or property damage.
See Also
Suspension U-Bolts, Grade 8 on page 213
Wheel Cap Nut Torque Specifications on
page 215
Frame Fastener Torque Requirements on
page 214
Suspension U-Bolts, Grade 8 on page 213
Rear Axle Lubrication
Lubrication requirements for rear axles.
See the axle manufacturer's operator's
manual for lubrication specifications and
service intervals.
Check oil level with the vehicle parked on
level ground and the fluid warm. The level
should be even with the bottom of the filler
hole.
Rear Axle Alignment
Continual road shock and load stresses
may force the rear axles out of alignment.
If you detect rapid tire wear on the rear
axles, you may have misaligned axles. If
you suspect rapid tire wear, have your rear
axle alignment checked and adjusted by an
authorized dealer.
Suspension alignment should be checked
when any one of the following conditions
exist:
• Discovery of loose suspension
fasteners. (Loose, defined as any
torque below the recommended
torque value.)
• Discovery of elongated holes in a
suspension component.
MAINTENANCE - Rear Axle and Suspension
Y53-6096-1A1 (01/17) 203
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