Trailing Arm: Service and Repair

Fig. 3 Installing extractor tool onto axle pivot arm:

REMOVAL

1. Remove rear axle assembly from vehicle as described previously.
2. Remove torsion bars from vehicle.
3. Install tool component (A) from tool T.Ar. 1056 or equivalent and a two jaw extractor (B) onto axle assembly (D).

Fig. 4 Removing bushing from axle pivot arm:

4. Drive axle pivot arm (C) and bushing from rear axle assembly.
5. Remove bushing (E) from axle pivot arm (C). A piece of metal (a 26 mm nut would be acceptable) and must be welded to the inside of the bushing. The nut is used as a back-up to drive the bushing from the axle pivot arm.
6. Using a suitable press and bearing splitter tool, J-22912-01 or equivalent, drive bushing from axle pivot arm. When driving bushing, use a suitable section of pipe or socket to prevent damage. Do not reuse bushing after it has been removed.

INSTALLATION

1. Position bushing into rear axle assembly.

Fig. 5 Axle pivot arm bushing & pivot arm alignment:

2. Using tool T.Ar. 1056 or equivalent, draw bushing into axle until it is flush with the outer edge of the axle. Position pivot arm to the axle for proper bushing preload. Before pressing the axle pivot arm (A) onto the axle bushing (B), it must be properly positioned. Position a straight edge along the top of the axle pivot arm where it attaches to the body at points (D). Move the pivot arm until dimension X is approximately 0.275 inch (7 mm). Take measurement from the center line of the axle shaft (E) to the straightedge on the axle pivot arm mounting points.
3. With pivot arm correctly positioned to the axle assembly, press pivot arm to the rear axle using tool T.Ar. 1056 or equivalent.
4. Press axle pivot arm until dimension Y is 50.5 inches (1285 mm). Dimension Y is taken between the left and right pivot arms at bolt holes (F).
5. Install rear axle assembly into assembly as described previously.
6. Install torsion bars into axle.