Dodge RAM TRUCK 1500 1995 Service Manual page 85

2 -10 FRONT SUSPENSION AND AXLE
(2) Install the links, grommets retainers and nuts
onto the axle brackets (Fig. 2). Tighten the nuts to 37
N-m (27 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install link on stabilizer bar and tighten nut to
118 N-m (87 ft. lbs.) torque.
(4) Remove the supports and lower the vehicle.
SHOCK DIAGNOSIS
A squeak noise from the shock absorber can be pro­
duced if movement between the rubber bushings and
the metal occurs. This noise can usually be stopped
by tightening the attaching nuts. If the squeak noise
persists, inspect for damaged and worn bushings,
and attaching components. Repair as necessary.
The shock absorbers are not refillable or adjust­
able. If a malfunction occurs, the shock absorber
must be replaced. To test a shock absorber, hold it in
an upright position and force the piston into and out
of the cylinder four or five times. The action through­
out each stroke should be smooth and even.
SHOCK ABSORBER
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the nut, retainer and grommet from
the upper stud in the engine compartment.
(2) Remove three nuts from the upper shock
bracket (Fig. 3).
J9402-46
Fig. 3 Shock Absorber and Bracket
(3) Remove the lower bolt from the axle bracket
(Fig. 4). Remove the shock absorber from engine com­
partment.
SHOCK lOtJ
J9402-47
Fig. 4 Shock Absorber Axle Mount
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the lower retainer and grommet on the
upper stud. Insert the shock absorber through the
spring from engine compartment.
(2) Install the lower bolt and tighten bolt to 135
N-m (100 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install the upper shock bracket and three nuts.
Tighten nuts to 75 N-m (55 ft. lbs.) torque.
(4) Install upper grommet and retainer. Install up­
per shock nut and tighten to 41 N-m (30 ft. lbs.)
torque.
COIL SPRilO
REMOVAL
(1) Raise and support the vehicle. Position a hy­
draulic jack under the axle to support it.
(2) Paint or scribe alignment marks on lower sus­
pension arm cam adjusters and axle bracket for in­
stallation reference.
(3) Remove the upper suspension arm and loosen
lower suspension arm bolts.
(4) Mark and disconnect the front propeller shaft
from the axle 4x4 models.
(5) Disconnect the track bar from the frame rail
bracket.
(6) Disconnect the drag link from pitman arm.
(7) Disconnect the stabilizer bar link and shock ab­
sorber from the axle.
(8) Lower the axle until the spring is free from the
upper mount. Remove the coil spring.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the coil spring on the axle pad.