Chapter 5 - Rear Suspension - Cub Cadet 6X4 Shop Handbook

ABOUT THIS CHAPTER:
Layout: There are two main sections of this chapter
1. The first section is concerned with identifying
problems in the rear suspension.
2. The second section covers component
replacement methods.
Approach: How the sections fit together
1. The first step in troubleshooting the rear suspen-
sion is to check the basics. The tires should be
properly inflated, and all of the components
should be in good condition. Adjusting worn
parts is a band-aid solution to a more serious
problem.
2. Most operational problems will show-up as align-
ment issues. Vehicles do not just "go out of
alignment". Most alignment issues are the result
of identifiable wear or damage to specific com-
ponents.
INSPECTION
1. Because the rear suspension is not intended for
steering purposes, inspection is much simpler
than it is at the front. Rear suspension inspec-
tion includes:
• Tire inflation and condition
• Ride height
• Control arm bushing condition
• Hub bushing condition
• Wheel bearing condition
• Anti-sway bar hardware
NOTE: In some instances, toe and camber
angle may be checked on the rear suspension.
Because they are not adjustable, any variation in
them is likely to be the result of damaged sus-
pension components.

CHAPTER 5 - REAR SUSPENSION

159
Chapter 5 - Rear Suspension
2. Rear suspension inspection: Tire inflation
See Figure 5.1.
Figure 5.1
• Check the air pressure in the tires. They should
be between 14-22 psi (.97-1.52 bar.), and
adjusted so that the effective radius is equal
between all four tires (same distance from hub
center to ground) in normal operating conditions.
NOTE: An imbalance in air pressure from left to
right on the rear tires will put undue strain on the
rear differential when operating on paved sur-
faces.
NOTE: An imbalance in air pressure from front
to rear will effect the lead-lag ratio, placing
undue strain on the drive system when operating
in four-wheel-drive mode on paved surfaces.
NOTE: If the vehicle is consistently used to carry
a heavy load in the cargo box, it may be neces-
sary to increase the rear tire air pressure to the
high end of the range.