Note: All checks and work should be carried out from underneath the vehicle, installed on a lift or inspection pit (with front wheels up).
Check the condition of the rubber-metal hinges, rubber cushions, suspension ball joints and the condition (settlement) of the upper supports of the telescopic suspension struts.
Attention! Check especially carefully whether there are any cracks or traces of contact with road obstacles or the body on suspension parts, deformation of levers, stretchers, stabilizer bars and their struts, parts of the front of the body in places where suspension units and parts are attached.
Rubber-metal hinges and rubber cushions are subject to replacement in case of ruptures and one-sided bulging of the rubber, as well as in case of cutting of their end surfaces.
The following is not allowed on rubber suspension parts:
- signs of rubber aging;
- mechanical damage.
On rubber-metal hinges (silent blocks) not allowed:
- signs of aging, cracks, one-sided bulging of the rubber mass;
- rubber mass separation from reinforcement.
Replace faulty parts.
Figure 4.2. Front suspension parts: 1 – stabilizer bar for lateral stability; 2 – telescopic stand; 3 – lower arm joint; 4 – lower arm of the front suspension; 5 – front tie rod hinge; 6 – lower arm tensioner; 7 - crossbar stabilizer bar; 8 – rear tension joint; 9 – ball joint of the lever; 10 – steering knuckle
The location of the front suspension elements to be tested is shown in the figure 4.2.
Note: When rocking the raised front wheel, it is difficult to distinguish play in the hub bearings and ball joints. Ask an assistant to press the brake pedal and if you feel any play, the ball joints are faulty.
Inspect the following key areas underneath the vehicle.
1. Protective covers for ball joints.
2. Rubber-metal hinges of the lower control arms, rear…
3. …and the front ones.
4. Rubber-metal hinges of the anti-roll bar struts.
5. Rubber-metal hinges of the lower arms.
6. Rubber arrays of the stabilizer bar cushions on the body side member.
7. Telescopic racks. Leaks of shock absorber fluid and "sweating" are not allowed.
Note: To check the ball joints, place a support under the lower arm.
Attention! When working on the lift, be careful not to drop the car when lowering it onto the support.
8. To check the ball joints, insert a tire iron between the lower arm and the steering knuckle and move its free end up and down. If you feel the knuckle move relative to the arm, there is a gap in the support and it must be replaced.
9. Repeat the check for the hinges on the opposite side. Remove the support from under the vehicle.