Front Suspension

2009 Chrysler Town & Country LX
2009 SUSPENSION Front Suspension - Grand Caravan, Town & Country
2009 SUSPENSION
Front Suspension - Grand Caravan, Town & Country
FRONT
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
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Fig. 1: Identifying Front Suspension Components
Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
This vehicle is equipped with a MacPherson Strut type front suspension. The front suspension consists of the
following major components:
 Hub And Bearing (8)

 Knuckle (3)
 Lower Control Arm (7)
 Stabilizer Bar (4)
 Stabilizer Link (2)
 Strut Assembly (1)
WARNING
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
WARNING: Chrysler does not manufacture any vehicles or replacement parts that
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contain asbestos. Aftermarket products may or may not contain asbestos.

Refer to aftermarket product packaging for product information.
Whether the product contains asbestos or not, dust and dirt can
accumulate on brake parts during normal use. Follow practices
prescribed by appropriate regulations for the handling, processing and
disposing of dust and debris.
WARNING: Do not remove the strut rod nut while strut assembly is installed in
vehicle, or before the coil spring is compressed with a compression tool.
The spring is held under high pressure.
CAUTION: At no time when servicing a vehicle can a sheet metal screw, bolt, or other
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metal fastener be installed in the shock tower to take the place of an
original plastic clip. It may come into contact with the strut or coil spring.
CAUTION: Wheel bearing damage will result if after loosening the axle hub nut, the
vehicle is rolled on the ground or the weight of the vehicle is allowed to be
supported by the tires for any length of time.
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE
TORQUE
DESCRIPTION N.m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Ball Joint Nut 27 + 180° turn 20 + 180° turn -
Brake Caliper Adapter Mounting Bolts 169 125 -
Brake Shield Mounting Screws 8 6 71
Crossmember Mounting Bolts 163 120 -
Fore/Aft Crossmember Forward Mounting Bolt 113 83 -
Fore/Aft Crossmember Rearward Mounting Bolts 55 41 -
Hub And Bearing Mounting Bolts 50 37 -
Hub Nut 160 118 -
Lower Control Arm Front Bolt 200 148 -
Lower Control Arm Rear Bolt nut 155 114 -
Stabilizer Bar Bushing Retainer Screws 45 33 -
Stabilizer Bar Link Nuts 88 65 -
Steering Gear Heat Shield Mounting Screws 8 6 71
Strut Body/Tower Mounting Nuts 28 21 250
Strut Clevis-to-Knuckle Nuts 88 + 90° turn 65 + 90° turn -
Strut Rod Nut 65 48 -
Tie Rod Jam Nut 75 55 -
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Tie Rod Steering Arm Nut 75 + 245° turn 55 + 245° turn -

Wheel Mounting (Lug) Nuts 135 100 -
SPECIAL TOOLS
SPECIAL TOOLS
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Fig. 2: Ball Joint Remover 9360
Fig. 3: Strut Nut Wrench 9362

Fig. 4: Remover C-4150A

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ARM, LOWER CONTROL
Removal
REMOVAL
1. Raise and support vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Quick Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure .
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Fig. 5: Identifying Tire & Wheel Assembly
2. Remove wheel mounting nuts (3), then tire and wheel assembly (1). Refer to Tires and Wheels -
Removal .
3. Remove knuckle. See Front Suspension/Front/KNUCKLE, Steering - Removal.
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Fig. 6: Removing/Installing Front Engine Mount Thru-Bolt
4. If left side lower control arm is being serviced and vehicle is equipped with 62TE (6-speed) automatic
transaxle, perform the following:
a. Remove front and rear engine mount thru-bolts (4) (front shown in Fig. 6; rear similar).
b. Rotate the lower portion of the engine and transaxle forward.
c. With the engine and transaxle in this position, go to Step 5 .
Fig. 7: Removing/Installing Front & Rear Bolts At Lower Control Arm & Crossmember
5. Remove front bolt (1) attaching lower control arm (2) to crossmember (4).
6. Remove rear bolt (3) and nut attaching lower control arm (2) to crossmember (4).
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7. Remove lower control arm (2).
Inspection
INSPECTION
Inspect lower control arm for signs of damage from contact with the ground or road debris. If lower control arm
shows any sign of damage, inspect lower control arm for distortion. Do not attempt to repair or straighten a
broken or bent lower control arm. If damaged, the lower control arm is serviced only as a complete assembly.
Inspect both lower control arm isolator bushings for severe deterioration, and replace as required. If a bushing
fails, the lower control arm must be replaced.
Inspect and test the ball joint per the procedure . See LOWER BALL JOINT.
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Installation
INSTALLATION
1. Position lower control arm (2) into brackets on suspension crossmember (4).
2. Install front mounting bolt (1) and rear mounting bolt (3) and nut attaching lower control arm to
crossmember. Do not tighten front bolt (1) at this time. Tighten rear mounting bolt nut to 155 N.m
(114 ft. lbs.).
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transaxle, reinstall front and rear engine mount thru-bolts (4) (front shown in Fig. 9; rear similar). Refer
to Engine/Engine Mounting/INSULATOR, Engine Mount - Installation .
4. Install steering knuckle, brake rotor and caliper. See Front Suspension/Front/KNUCKLE, Steering -
Installation.

5. Install tire and wheel assembly (1). Refer to Tires and Wheels - Installation . Install and tighten wheel
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mounting nuts (3) to 135 N.m (100 ft. lbs.).
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6. Lower vehicle.
7. Position vehicle on alignment rack/drive-on hoist. Raise hoist as necessary to access mounting bolts.
8. At curb height, tighten front lower control arm mounting bolt (1) to 200 N.m (148 ft. lbs.).
9. Perform wheel alignment. See Front Suspension/Wheel Alignment - Standard Procedure.
BALL JOINT, SUSPENSION, LOWER
Diagnosis and Testing
LOWER BALL JOINT
1. Raise and support the vehicle allowing the front suspension to hang. Refer to Vehicle Quick
Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure .
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Removal .
Fig. 13: Measuring Ball Joint Movement Using Dial Indicator & Special Tool C-3339A
3. Using Dial Indicator (3), Special Tool C-3339A, or equivalent, attach the dial indicator mount to the
knuckle and align the dial indicator's plunger with the direction of the stud axis, touching the rear of the
ball joint socket (2) in the lower control arm.
4. Push up on the lower control arm and zero the dial indicator.
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NOTE: Use care when applying load to the knuckle as to avoid damaging the ball
joint seal boot.
5. From the front of the vehicle, insert a pry bar (1) between the knuckle and lower control arm, resting it on
the lower control arm. Use lever principle to push the knuckle up from the lower control arm. Apply the
load until the needle of the dial indicator no longer moves.
6. Record the ball joint movement. The end play is acceptable if no more than 1.0 mm (0.039 in.) of end
play is achieved back-to-back.
7. Perform Steps 1 through 6 on each side of the vehicle as necessary.
Removal
REMOVAL
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1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Quick Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure .

2. Remove the wheel mounting nuts (3), then the tire and wheel assembly (1). Refer to Tires and Wheels -
Removal .
3. Remove knuckle. See Front Suspension/Front/KNUCKLE, Steering - Removal.
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Fig. 15: Removing/Installing Ball Joint Dust Boot
4. Remove the ball joint dust boot (1).
Fig. 16: Pressing Ball Joint Out Of Lower Control Arm Using Using Ball Joint Press C-4212F,
Remover 8445-3, & 10140-3
5. Using Ball Joint Press C-4212F (1), remover 8445-3 (2) and 10140-3 (3), press the ball joint out of the
lower control arm.
Installation
INSTALLATION
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Fig. 17: Pressing Ball Joint Into Lower Control Arm Using Ball Joint Press C-4212F, Installer 10140-1, &
10140-2
1. Using Ball Joint Press C-4212F (1), installer 10140-1 (2) and 10140-2 (3), press the ball joint into the
lower control arm.
2. Install steering knuckle, brake rotor and caliper. See Front Suspension/Front/KNUCKLE, Steering -
Installation.

3. Install the tire and wheel assembly (1). Refer to Tires and Wheels - Installation . Install and tighten
wheel mounting nuts (3) to 135 N.m (100 ft. lbs.).
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4. Lower the vehicle.

BUSHING(S), LOWER CONTROL ARM
Removal
REMOVAL
2. Remove wheel mounting nuts , then tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tires and Wheels - Removal .
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Fig. 19: Removing/Installing Halfshaft Nut
3. With the vehicle's brakes applied to keep hub from turning, loosen the halfshaft nut (2).
4. Remove the nut (2) from the halfshaft (1) to allow the halfshaft to be pushed in.
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5. If left side lower control arm bushing is being serviced and vehicle is equipped with 62TE (6-speed)
automatic transaxle, perform the following:
a. Remove front and rear engine mount thru-bolts (4) (front shown in Fig. 20; rear similar).
b. Rotate the lower portion of the engine and transaxle forward.
c. With the engine and transaxle in this position, go to Step 6 .
6. Remove front bolt (1) attaching lower control arm (2) to crossmember (4).
7. Remove rear bolt (3) and nut attaching lower control arm (2) to crossmember (4).
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8. Remove lower control arm (2) from the engine cradle.
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Fig. 22: Pressing Bushing Out Of Lower Control Arm Using Remover 10141 & Adapters 10141-4,
101412-1, & 101412-2
9. Using remover 10141 (1) and adapters 10141-4 (2), 101412-1 (3), and 101412-2 (4), press the bushing
out of the lower control arm.
Installation
INSTALLATION
Fig. 23: Installing Bushing In Lower Control Arm Using Installer 10141 & Adapter 10141-5, 10141-1
Sizer Cup, & 10141-3
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NOTE: When installing the bushing in the sizer cup 10141-1 (3), use Mopar® rubber
bushing installation lube Part No. 05010319AA or equivalent.
1. Using installer 10141 (1) and adapter 10141-5 (2), 10141-1 sizer cup (3), and 10141-3 (4), install the
bushing in the lower control arm.
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2. Position lower control arm (2) into brackets on suspension crossmember (4).
3. Install front mounting bolt (1) and rear mounting bolt (3) and nut attaching lower control arm to
crossmember. Do not tighten front bolt (1) at this time. Tighten rear mounting bolt nut to 155 N.m
(114 ft. lbs.).
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transaxle, reinstall front and rear engine mount thru-bolts (4) (front shown in Fig. 25; rear similar). Refer
to Engine/Engine Mounting/INSULATOR, Engine Mount - Installation .
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Fig. 26: Removing/Installing Halfshaft Nut
NOTE: Always install a new hub nut. The original hub nut is one-time use only
and should be discarded when removed.
5. Clean all foreign matter from the threads of the outer CV joint. Install the half shaft to hub/bearing
assembly nut on half shaft and securely tighten nut.
6. With the vehicle's brakes applied to keep hub from turning, tighten the hub nut (2) to a torque of 160 N.m
(118 ft. lbs.).
7. Install tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tires and Wheels - Installation . Install and tighten wheel
8. Lower vehicle.
9. Position vehicle on alignment rack/drive-on hoist. Raise hoist as necessary to access mounting bolts.
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10. At curb height, tighten front lower control arm mounting bolt (1) to 200 N.m (148 ft. lbs.).
HUB AND BEARING
HUB AND BEARING
The condition of the front hub and bearing assembly is diagnosed using the inspection and testing procedure
detailed below.
The bearing contained in the Unit III front hub/bearing assembly will produce noise and vibration when worn or
damaged. The noise will generally change when the bearings are loaded. A road test of the vehicle is normally
required to determine the location of a worn or damaged bearing.
Find a smooth level road surface and bring the vehicle up to a constant speed. When vehicle is at a constant
speed, swerve the vehicle back and forth from the left and to the right. This will load and unload the bearings
and change the noise level. When bearing damage is slight, the noise is sometimes noticeable at lower speeds
and at other times is more noticeable at speeds above 105 km/h (65 mph).
Removal
REMOVAL
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Removal .
Fig. 29: Identifying Hub Nut & Axle Halfshaft Stub Shaft
3. With aid of a helper applying brakes to keep front hub from turning, remove hub nut (1) from axle
halfshaft stub shaft (2).
4. Access and remove front brake rotor. Refer to Brakes/Hydraulic/Mechanical/ROTOR, Brake -
Removal .
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Fig. 30: Removing/Installing Brake Shield
5. Remove screws (1) fastening brake shield (3) to knuckle (2), then remove brake shield.
Fig. 31: Identifying Wheel Speed Sensor Connector & Vehicle Wiring Harness
6. Disconnect vehicle wiring harness (1) from wheel speed sensor connector.
7. Unclip wheel speed sensor connector from bracket (2) on frame rail.
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Fig. 32: Removing/Installing Screw At Wheel Speed Sensor Routing Bracket & Mounting Flange
On Strut
8. Remove screw (1) fastening wheel speed sensor routing bracket (3) to mounting flange (2) on strut.
Fig. 33: Removing/Installing Screw At Wheel Speed Sensor Routing Bracket & Knuckle
9. Remove screw (3) fastening wheel speed sensor routing bracket (2) to knuckle.
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Fig. 34: Removing/Installing Hub & Bearing With Wheel Speed Sensor
10. Push in on end of halfshaft (3) stub shaft, pushing its splines out of hub splines.
11. Remove four hub and bearing mounting bolts (2) from rear of steering knuckle (1).
12. Remove hub and bearing with wheel speed sensor from steering knuckle.
Installation
INSTALLATION
Fig. 35: Installing Hub & Bearing Onto Halfshaft Stub Shaft With Isolation Washer Installed On
Halfshaft Stub Shaft
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CAUTION: Hub and bearing mounting surfaces on knuckle and stub shaft (2) must be
smooth and completely free of foreign material or nicks prior to installing
hub and bearing assembly.
1. Make sure isolation washer (1) is located on halfshaft stub shaft (2). Washer is bi-directional, and can be
installed in either direction.
2. Install hub and bearing (3) onto halfshaft stub shaft (2) and into knuckle until squarely seated on face of
knuckle. Make sure wheel speed sensor is positioned toward rear of vehicle.
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Fig. 36: Removing/Installing Hub & Bearing With Wheel Speed Sensor
3. Install four hub and bearing mounting bolts (2) from rear of knuckle (1). Progressively and equally
tighten all four mounting bolts using a crisscross pattern. Tighten mounting bolts to 65 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
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4. Attach wheel speed sensor routing bracket (2) to knuckle (1). Install and tighten screw (3) to 13 N.m (115
in. lbs.).
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On Strut
5. Attach wheel speed sensor routing bracket (3) to mounting flange (2) on strut assembly. Install and
tighten screw (1) to 10 N.m (89 in. lbs.).
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6. Clip wheel speed sensor connector and routing clip (3) to bracket (2) on frame rail.
7. Connect vehicle wiring harness (1) to wheel speed sensor connector.
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8. Install brake shield (3) on knuckle (2). Install and tighten three mounting screws (1) to 8 N.m (71 in. lbs.).
9. Install brake rotor, then install disc brake caliper and adapter assembly. Refer to
Brakes/Hydraulic/Mechanical/ROTOR, Brake - Installation .
10. Verify that wheel speed sensor is routed properly, not allowing cable to come in contact with moving
parts.
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11. Install hub nut (1) on end of halfshaft stub shaft (2). With aid of a helper applying brakes to keep front
hub from turning, tighten hub nut to 160 N.m (118 ft. lbs.).
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13. Lower vehicle.
14. Pump brake pedal several times to ensure vehicle has a firm brake pedal before moving vehicle.
15. Check and adjust brake fluid level as necessary.
KNUCKLE, STEERING
Description
DESCRIPTION
The knuckle is a single aluminum casting with legs machined for attachment of the strut assembly, disc brake
caliper adapter, lower control arm ball joint and steering linkage. The hub and bearing assembly is mounted in
the center of the steering knuckle using four bolts. The driveshaft's constant velocity (C/V) stub shaft is splined
through the center of the hub and bearing and is held in place using a locking hub nut.
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Service replacement of the front hub and bearing assembly can be done with the steering knuckle remaining on
the vehicle.
Removal
REMOVAL
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2. Remove wheel mounting nuts (3), then tire and wheel assembly (1).
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3. With aid of a helper applying brakes to keep front hub from turning, remove hub nut (1) from axle
halfshaft stub shaft (2).
4. Push in on end of halfshaft stub shaft (2), disengaging its splines from hub splines.
5. Access and remove front brake rotor. Refer to Brakes/Hydraulic/Mechanical/ROTOR, Brake -
Removal .
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6. Remove screws (1) fastening brake shield (3) to knuckle (2), then remove brake shield.
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7. Disconnect vehicle wiring harness (1) from wheel speed sensor connector.
8. Unclip wheel speed sensor connector from bracket (2) on frame rail.
On Strut
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10. Remove screw (3) fastening wheel speed sensor routing bracket (2) to knuckle.
Fig. 49: Removing/Installing Outer Tie Rod Stud At Knuckle Steering Arm
11. Remove nut (1) attaching outer tie rod (5) to steering knuckle (2) by holding outer tie rod stud stationary
while loosening and removing nut with a wrench.
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Fig. 50: Removing Outer Tie Rod Stud From Steering Knuckle Using Puller 9360
12. Remove outer tie rod (3) stud from steering knuckle (1) using Puller (2), Special Tool 9360.
CAUTION: The strut assembly-to-knuckle attaching bolts are serrated and must
not be turned during removal. Proper removal is required. Refer to
the following steps for the correct method.
Fig. 51: Removing/Installing Nuts & Bolts At Strut & Left Knuckle
13. If servicing left knuckle:

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a. While holding bolt heads stationary, remove two nuts (3) from bolts (2) attaching strut (1) to
knuckle.
b. Remove two bolts (2) attaching strut (1) to knuckle using a pin punch.
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Fig. 52: Removing/Installing Nuts & Bolts At Strut & Right Knuckle
14. If servicing right knuckle:

knuckle.
15. Tip knuckle outward at top and remove halfshaft stub shaft from hub and bearing. Suspend halfshaft
straight outward using a bungee cord or wire. Do not allow halfshaft to hang by inner joint.
16. Remove ball joint nut using a power impact wrench. Because tapered stud is held sufficiently in
knuckle at this time, it is not necessary to hold stud stationary to remove nut.
17. Reinstall ball joint nut until top of nut is even with top of ball joint stud. This action will keep stud from
distorting while stud is released from knuckle in following step.
CAUTION: Do not remove ball joint stud from knuckle using a hammer. Damage
to ALUMINUM knuckle, ball joint or control arm will result.
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Fig. 53: Removing Steering Knuckle Using Press & Remover C-4150A
NOTE: Lubricate Press (2), Special Tool C-4150A, screw-drive threads before use
to ease use and promote tool longevity.
18. Place Press (2), Special Tool C-4150A, over ball joint stud and nut (4) as shown in Fig. 53. Release ball
joint stud from steering knuckle (1) by tightening tool screw-drive. To ease Remover installation and
use, it may help to rotate knuckle around so inside of knuckle faces outward.
19. Remove tool and nut from top of ball joint stud.
20. Remove steering knuckle from vehicle.
21. If hub and bearing needs to be transferred, remove four bolts attaching hub and bearing to knuckle, then
remove hub and bearing.
Inspection
INSPECTION
Inspect the knuckle for the following:
 Cracks or breaks
 Dents or damage
 Stress marks indicating a bend
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The front suspension knuckle is not a repairable component of the vehicles front suspension. If bent, broken or
damaged in any way, do not attempt to straighten or repair the steering knuckle. It must be replaced.
If inspection leads to the hub and bearing, see Front Suspension/Front/HUB AND BEARING - Diagnosis
and Testing.
Installation
INSTALLATION
1. If hub and bearing needs to be installed in knuckle, place hub and bearing squarely into center hole of
knuckle with wheel speed sensor positioned toward trailing end of knuckle. Align threaded mounting
holes of hub and bearing with mounting holes in steering knuckle, then install four mounting bolts.
Progressively tighten mounting bolts in a crisscross pattern. Tighten mounting bolts to 50 N.m (37 ft.
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lbs.).
CAUTION: Before installing knuckle on ball joint stud, wipe ball joint stud and
knuckle contact area free of any grease or debris, otherwise damage
to knuckle can occur. Use a clean shop cloth with Mopar® Brake
Parts Cleaner applied to it for proper cleaning. Do not spray stud
directly.
Fig. 54: Identifying Knuckle & Ball Joint Stud

2. Place knuckle (1) on ball joint stud (2).

3. Install a NEW steering knuckle to ball joint stud nut. Tighten nut by holding ball joint stud (2) with hex
wrench while turning nut with a wrench. Using a crowfoot wrench on a torque wrench, tighten nut to 27
N.m (20 ft. lbs.) plus an additional 180° turn after torque is met.
4. Slide halfshaft stub shaft into hub and bearing assembly.
CAUTION: The strut clevis-to-knuckle bolts are serrated and must not be turned
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during installation. Install the nuts while holding the bolts stationary
in the steering knuckle. Refer to the following steps.
CAUTION: If vehicle being serviced is equipped with eccentric cam strut

attaching bolts, eccentric cam bolt must be installed in bottom
(slotted) hole on strut clevis bracket.
NOTE: The strut clevis-to-knuckle bolts are installed differently on each side. Left
hand side bolts are to be installed from vehicle rear to front. Right side
bolts are to be installed from vehicle front to rear.
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a. Position the lower end of the strut assembly (1) in line with the upper end of the knuckle, aligning
the mounting holes. Install the two strut clevis-to-knuckle bolts (2).
b. Install strut clevis-to-knuckle nuts (3) on the two bolts (2). While holding the bolts in place, tighten
the strut clevis-to-knuckle nuts to 88 N.m (65 ft. lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn after torque is met.
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CAUTION: Before installing tie rod stud in knuckle steering arm, wipe stud and
knuckle contact area free of any grease or debris, otherwise damage
to knuckle can occur. Use a clean shop cloth with Mopar® Brake
Parts Cleaner applied to it for proper cleaning. Do not spray stud
directly.
7. Install outer tie rod (5) stud into knuckle steering arm (2). Start nut (1) onto tie rod stud. While holding
stud stationary, tighten nut using a wrench. Using a crowfoot wrench on a torque wrench, tighten nut to
75 N.m (55 ft. lbs.) plus an additional 245° turn after torque is met.
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8. Attach wheel speed sensor routing bracket (2) to knuckle (1). Install and tighten screw (3) to 8 N.m (71
in. lbs.).
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On Strut
10. Clip wheel speed sensor connector and routing clip (3) to bracket (2) on frame rail.
11. Connect vehicle wiring harness (1) to wheel speed sensor connector.
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12. Install brake shield (3) on knuckle (2). Install and tighten three mounting screws (1) to 8 N.m (71 in. lbs.).
13. Install brake rotor, then install disc brake caliper and adapter assembly. Refer to
Brakes/Hydraulic/Mechanical/ROTOR, Brake - Installation .
14. Verify that wheel speed sensor is routed properly, not allowing cable to come in contact with moving
parts.
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15. Install hub nut (1) on end of halfshaft stub shaft (2). With aid of a helper applying brakes to keep front
hub from turning, tighten hub nut to 160 N.m (118 ft. lbs.).
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17. Lower vehicle.
18. Pump brake pedal several times to ensure vehicle has a firm brake pedal before moving vehicle.
19. Check and adjust brake fluid level as necessary.
STABILIZER BAR, FRONT
Removal
REMOVAL
NOTE: Before proceeding, see Front Suspension/Front - Warning.
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Quick Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure .
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2. On each side of vehicle, remove wheel mounting nuts (3), then tire and wheel assembly (1).
Fig. 65: Identifying Stabilizer Bar Link, Stabilizer Bar, & Nut
3. At each end of the stabilizer bar, while holding the stabilizer bar link (1) lower stud stationary (wrench
placed on machined flats on stud), remove the nut (2) securing the link to the stabilizer bar (3).
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4. On both sides of vehicle, remove nut (1) attaching outer tie rod (5) to knuckle (2) by holding rod end stud
stationary while loosening and removing nut with a wrench.
Fig. 67: Removing Outer Tie Rod Stud From Steering Knuckle Using Puller 9360
5. Release each outer tie rod end (3) from knuckle (1) using Remover (1), Special Tool 9360.
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6. Remove front engine mount thru-bolt (4).
Fig. 69: Removing/Installing Fore-Aft Crossmember

7. Remove fore-aft crossmember front mounting bolt (6).

8. Remove four fore-aft crossmember rear mounting bolts (3, 4).
9. Remove the fore-aft crossmember.
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Fig. 70: Removing/Installing Heat Shield
10. Remove the screws and push-pins securing the heat shield (1) over the right side of the steering gear (2).
Remove heat shield.
11. Remove the rear engine mount. Refer to Engine/Engine Mounting/INSULATOR, Engine Mount -
Removal .
Fig. 71: Removing/Installing Screws At Power Steering Pressure Hose Routing Clamp(s) & Rear Of
Crossmember
12. Remove the screws (3) securing the power steering pressure hose routing clamp(s) (4.0L engine only uses
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one) to the rear of the crossmember.
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Fig. 72: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Bar At Crossmember
13. Remove the screws (1) securing the stabilizer bushing retainers (2) to the crossmember.
14. Remove the two stabilizer bushing retainers (2).
15. Utilizing the slit cut into the cushions (bushings), remove the two cushions from the stabilizer bar.
16. Slowly rotate the stabilizer bar as necessary and remove it out through the driver side wheel opening.
Installation
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Before stabilizer bar installation, inspect the cushions and links for excessive
wear, cracks, damage and distortion. Replace any pieces failing inspection.
NOTE: Before installing the stabilizer bar, make sure the bar is not upside-down. The
stabilizer bar must be installed so that when in mounted position, the ends of
the bar curve under the steering gear tie rods, up to the links.
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Fig. 73: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Bar At Crossmember
1. Install the stabilizer bar through the driver side wheel opening. Rotate the bar as necessary until it is
centered over the suspension crossmember and the ends curve upward below the steering gear tie rods.
2. Install the two bushings on the stabilizer bar utilizing the slit cut into the bushing sides.
3. Install the two stabilizer bushing retainers (2) over the bushings.
4. Install the four screws (1) securing the stabilizer bushing retainers (2) to the crossmember. Tighten screws
to 45 N.m (33 ft. lbs.).
Fig. 74: Removing/Installing Screws At Power Steering Pressure Hose Routing Clamp(s) & Rear Of
Crossmember
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5. Position the power steering pressure hose routing clamp(s) (4.0L engine only uses one) on the rear of the
crossmember. Install and tighten the screw(s) to 8 N.m (71 in. lbs.).
6. Install the rear engine mount. Refer to Engine/Engine Mounting/INSULATOR, Engine Mount -
Installation .
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Fig. 75: Removing/Installing Heat Shield
7. Position the heat shield (1) over the steering gear (2). Install the mounting screws and push-pins. Tighten
the screws to 8 N.m (71 in. lbs.).
Fig. 76: Removing/Installing Fore-Aft Crossmember

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8. Position the fore-aft crossmember in the engine compartment and install the mounting bolts (3, 4, 6).
Tighten the forward mounting bolt (6) to 113 N.m (83 ft. lbs.). Tighten the rearward mounting bolts (3, 4)
at the suspension crossmember (2) to 55 N.m (41 ft. lbs.).
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9. Install the front engine mount thru-bolt (4). Tighten the bolt to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs.).
10. On each side of vehicle, attach the outer tie rod (5) to the knuckle (2). Start a NEW nut (1) onto the outer
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tie rod stud. While holding the stud stationary, tighten the nut using a wrench. Using a crowfoot wrench
on a torque wrench, tighten the nut to 75 N.m (55 ft. lbs.). Then, tighten the nut an additional 245° turn
after that torque is met.
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Fig. 79: Identifying Stabilizer Bar Link, Stabilizer Bar, & Nut
11. Attach the stabilizer bar link (1) at each end of the stabilizer bar (3). At each link, install and tighten the
nut (2) while holding the stabilizer bar link lower stud stationary. Tighten the nuts to 88 N.m (65 ft. lbs.).

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12. On each side of vehicle, install the tire and wheel assembly (1). Refer to Tires and Wheels -
Installation . Install and tighten the wheel mounting nuts (3) in proper sequence to 135 N.m (100 ft. lbs.).
13. Lower vehicle.
STRUT, SUSPENSION, ASSEMBLY
Description
DESCRIPTION
A Macpherson type design strut assembly is used in place of the traditional front suspension upper control arm
and upper ball joint. The bottom of the strut mounts directly to the steering knuckle using two attaching bolts
and nuts going through the strut clevis bracket and knuckle. The top of the strut mounts directly to the strut
tower of the vehicle using the three threaded studs on the strut assembly's upper mount.
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Fig. 81: Identifying Strut Assembly Components
The strut assembly includes the following components:
 Upper mount (2)

 Bearing and upper spring seat (3)
 Upper spring isolator (4)
 Dust shield (5)
 Jounce bumper (6)
 Coil spring (7)
 Lower spring isolator (8)
 Strut (damper) (9)
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Each component is serviced by removing the strut assembly from the vehicle and disassembling it.
Coil springs are rated separately for each corner or side of the vehicle depending on optional equipment and
type of vehicle service. If a coil spring requires replacement, be sure that it is replaced with a spring meeting the
correct load rating for the vehicle and its specific options.
STRUT ASSEMBLY
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Inspect the strut assembly for the following conditions:
 Inspect for a damaged or broken coil spring (7).

 Inspect for a torn or damaged dust shield (5).
 Inspect for torn or deteriorated spring isolators (4, 8).
 Lift the dust shield and inspect the strut assembly for evidence of fluid running from the upper end of the
strut fluid reservoir. (Actual leakage will be a stream of fluid running down the side and dripping off
lower end of unit). A slight amount of seepage between the strut shaft and strut shaft seal is not unusual
and does not affect performance of the strut assembly.
 Inspect the jounce bumper (6) for signs of damage or deterioration.
 Inspect the clearance between the shock tower and the coil spring. Make sure no fasteners are protruding
through the shock tower possibly contacting the coil spring and strut. Because of the minimum clearance
in this area, installation of metal fasteners could damage the coil spring coating and lead to a corrosion
failure of the spring.
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Fig. 83: Identifying Shock Tower Area
CAUTION: At no time when servicing a vehicle can a sheet metal screw, bolt or other
metal fastener be installed into the strut tower (1) to take the place of an
original plastic clip. Also, do not drill holes into the front strut tower for
the installation of any metal fasteners into the shock tower area indicated
(3).
Removal
REMOVAL
WARNING: Do not remove nut from strut rod while strut assembly is installed in
vehicle or before strut assembly spring is compressed.
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2. Remove wheel mounting nuts (3), then tire and wheel assembly (1).
3. If both strut assemblies are to be removed, mark strut assemblies right or left according to which side of
vehicle they were removed from to keep from mixing parts.
On Strut
NOTE: It is important to note that left and right side wheel speed sensor routing
brackets (3) mount opposite each other on the strut making it necessary to
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install the left side mounting screw from the rear and right side mounting
screw from the front.
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Fig. 86: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Bar Link At Bracket On Strut Assembly
CAUTION: When removing nut (3) from stud of stabilizer bar link (2), do not
allow stud to rotate in it's socket. Hold stud from rotating by placing
an open-end wrench on flat surface machined into stud.
5. Remove stabilizer bar link (2) from bracket on strut assembly (1). To do so, place an open-end wrench on
flat surface machined into link's mounting stud, then remove nut (3) while holding wrench in place. Push
stud out of bracket.
CAUTION: The strut assembly-to-knuckle attaching bolts are serrated and must
not be turned during removal. Proper removal is required. Refer to
the following steps for the correct method.
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6. If servicing left strut:

knuckle.
7. If servicing right strut:

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knuckle.
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Fig. 89: Removing/Installing Cowl Grille
8. Remove wiper arms and cowl grille (3) from cowl plenum (1). Refer to Body/Exterior/COVER, Cowl
Panel - Removal .
Fig. 90: Removing/Installing Strut Assembly

9. Remove three nuts (1) attaching strut assembly (2) upper mount to strut tower, then remove strut
assembly from vehicle.
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10. To disassemble strut assembly, see Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension - Disassembly.
Disassembly
DISASSEMBLY
NOTE: The strut assembly must be removed from the vehicle for it to be disassembled
and assembled. See Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension - Removal.
For the disassembly and assembly of the strut assembly, use strut spring compressor, teamPSE tool 223-7400,
or the equivalent, to compress the coil spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.
WARNING: Do not remove the strut rod nut before the coil spring is properly
compressed. The coil spring is held under pressure. The coil spring must
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be compressed, removing spring tension from the upper mount and
bearing, before the strut rod nut is removed.
1. If both struts are being serviced at the same time, mark both the coil spring and strut assembly according
to which side of the vehicle the strut is being removed from.
Fig. 91: Identifying Strut Assembly Positioned In Strut Coil Spring Compressor
2. Position the strut assembly (2) in the strut coil spring compressor (1) following the manufacturer's
instructions and set the lower and upper hooks of the compressor on the coil spring. Position the strut
clevis bracket (2) straight outward, away from the compressor.
3. Compress the coil spring until all coil spring tension is removed from the upper mount and bearing.
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Fig. 92: Identifying Strut Nut Wrench 9362 & Deep Socket
CAUTION: Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the strut rod nut.
Damage to the strut internal bearings can occur.
4. Once the spring is sufficiently compressed, install Strut Nut Wrench (2), Special Tool 9362, on the strut
rod nut. Next, install a deep socket (1) on the end of the strut rod. While holding the strut rod from
turning, remove the nut using the strut nut wrench.

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5. Remove the clamp (if installed) from the bottom of the coil spring and remove the strut (damper) (9) out
through the bottom of the coil spring.
6. Remove the lower spring isolator (8) from the strut seat.
7. remove the dust shield (5) and jounce bumper (6).
8. Remove the upper strut mount (2) from the top of the bearing and upper spring seat (3).
9. Remove the upper spring seat (3) and isolator (4) from the top of the coil spring (5).
NOTE: If the coil spring needs to be serviced, proceed with Step 10 , otherwise,
proceed with Step 11.
10. Release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor drive completely. Push back the
compressor hooks and remove the coil spring.
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11. Inspect the strut assembly components for the following and replace as necessary:
NOTE: For reassembly, see Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension -

Assembly.
 Inspect the strut (damper) (9) for shaft binding over the full stroke of the shaft.
 Inspect the jounce bumper (6) for cracks and signs of deterioration.
 Inspect the dust shield (5) for cracks and tears.
 Check the upper mount (2) for cracks and distortion and its retaining studs for any sign of damage.
 Check the bearing and upper spring seat (3) for any binding.
 Inspect the upper and lower spring isolators (4, 8) for material deterioration and distortion.
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 Inspect the coil spring (7) for any sign of damage to the coating.
Assembly
ASSEMBLY
NOTE: If the coil spring has been removed from the spring compressor, proceed with
Step 1 , otherwise, proceed with Step 3.
NOTE: When installing the coil spring in the spring compressor, be sure to place the
end with the tag closest to it upward.
1. Place the coil spring in the spring compressor following the manufacturer's instructions. Before
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compressing the spring, rotate the spring so the end of the bottom coil is at approximately the 9 o'clock
position as viewed above (or to where the spring was when removed from the compressor). This action
will allow the strut (damper) clevis bracket to be positioned outward, away from the compressor once
installed.
2. Slowly compress the coil spring until enough room is available for strut assembly reassembly.

3. Install the bearing and upper spring seat (3), and isolator (4) on top of the coil spring (7).
4. Install the upper mount (2) on top of the bearing and upper spring seat (3).
5. Install the lower spring isolator (8) on the spring seat on the strut (damper) (9).
6. Slide the jounce bumper (6) and dust shield (5) onto the strut rod.
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Fig. 96: Identifying Bottom Coil At Stop
7. Install the strut up through the bottom of the coil spring and upper spring seat, mount, and bearing until
the lower spring seat contacts the lower end of the coil spring. Rotate the strut as necessary until the end
of the bottom coil (2) comes in contact with the stop (1) built into the lower spring isolator.
Fig. 97: Removing/Installing Nut At End Of Strut Rod

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CAUTION: Before installing and the strut rod nut, make sure the hole (4) in the
upper mount faces away from the strut clevis bracket (5). Upon doing
so, also make sure the bearing and upper spring seat is positioned
so the notches (1) in its top line with the studs (2) located in the
upper mount flange. This orientation is necessary to avoid possible
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) issues following installation.
8. While holding the strut in position, install the nut (3) on the end of the strut rod (6) by hand.
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Fig. 98: Identifying Strut Nut Wrench 9362 & Deep Socket
CAUTION: Never use impact or high speed tools to remove the strut rod nut.
Damage to the strut internal bearings can occur.
9. Install Strut Nut Wrench (2), Special Tool 9362, on the strut rod nut. Next, install a deep socket (1) on the
end of the strut rod. While holding the strut rod from turning, tighten the strut rod nut to 65 N.m (48 ft.
lbs.) using a torque wrench on the end of Special Tool 9362.
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Fig. 99: Removing/Installing Nut At End Of Strut Rod
CAUTION: Before releasing the tension from the coil spring by backing off the
compressor (1) drive, make sure the hole (4) in the upper mount
faces away from the strut clevis bracket (5). Upon doing so, also
make sure the bearing and upper spring seat is positioned so the
notches in its top (1) line with the studs (2) located in the upper
mount flange. This orientation is necessary to avoid possible Noise,
Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) issues following installation.
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Fig. 100: Identifying Strut Assembly Positioned In Strut Coil Spring Compressor
10. Slowly release the tension from the coil spring by backing off the compressor (1) drive completely. As
the tension is relieved, make sure the upper mount and bearing align properly. Verify the upper mount
does not bind when rotated.
11. Remove the strut assembly from the spring compressor.
12. Install the strut assembly on the vehicle. See Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension -
Installation.
Installation
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: When installing a strut assembly, make sure strut being installed has
correct coil spring for that side of vehicle. Do not interchange two sides.
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Fig. 101: Removing/Installing Strut Assembly
1. Install strut assembly (3) into strut tower (2), aligning and inserting three studs on upper strut mount into
holes in tower. Install three mounting nuts (1). Tighten nuts to 28 N.m (21 ft. lbs.).
Fig. 102: Removing/Installing Cowl Grille

2. Install cowl grille (3) and wiper arms. Refer to Body/Exterior/COVER, Cowl Panel - Installation .
CAUTION: The strut clevis-to-knuckle bolts are serrated and must not be turned
during installation. Install the nuts while holding the bolts stationary
in the steering knuckle. Refer to the following steps.
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CAUTION: If vehicle being serviced is equipped with eccentric cam strut

attaching bolts, eccentric cam bolt must be installed in bottom
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3. If servicing left strut:

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4. If servicing right strut:

Fig. 105: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Bar Link At Bracket On Strut Assembly

5. Install stabilizer bar link (2) mounting stud through rearmost hole in bracket on strut assembly (1).
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CAUTION: When installing nut on mounting stud of stabilizer bar link, do not
allow stud to rotate in it's socket. Hold stud from rotating by placing
an open-end wrench on flat surface machined into stud.
6. Hand thread nut (3) on end of stabilizer bar link stud. Place an open-end wrench on flat surface machined
into link's mounting stud to hold stud from turning while tightening nut. Tighten nut to 88 N.m (65 ft.
lbs.).
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On Strut
NOTE: It is important to note that left and right side wheel speed sensor routing
brackets (3) mount opposite one another on the strut making it necessary
to install the left side mounting screw from the rear and right side
mounting screw from the front.
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9. Lower vehicle.
10. Perform wheel alignment as necessary. See Front Suspension/Wheel Alignment - Standard
Procedure.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
Vehicle wheel alignment is the positioning of all interrelated front and rear suspension angles. These angles
affect the handling and steering of the vehicle when it is in motion. Proper wheel alignment is essential for
efficient steering, good directional stability, and proper tire wear.
The method of checking a vehicle's front and rear wheel alignment varies depending on the manufacturer and
type of equipment used. The manufacturer's instructions should always be followed to ensure accuracy of the
alignment, except when Chrysler Corporation's wheel alignment specifications differ.
On this vehicle, the suspension angles that can be adjusted are as follows:
 Front Camber (with camber bolt package and standard procedure)

 Front Toe
Check the wheel alignment and make all wheel alignment adjustments with the vehicle standing at its proper
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curb height specification. Curb height is the normal riding height of the vehicle. It is measured from a certain
point on the vehicle to the ground or a designated area while the vehicle is sitting on a flat, level surface. Refer
to CURB HEIGHT MEASUREMENT for additional information.
Typical wheel alignment angles and measurements are described in the following paragraphs.
CAMBER
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Fig. 108: Identifying Positive & Negative Camber
1 - WHEELS TILTED OUT AT TOP

2 - WHEELS TILTED IN AT TOP
Camber is the inward (2) or outward (1) tilt of the top of the tire and wheel assembly. Camber is measured in
degrees of angle relative to a true vertical line. Camber is a tire wearing angle.
 Excessive negative camber will cause tread wear at the inside of the tire.
 Excessive positive camber will cause tread wear on the outside of the tire.
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A camber imbalance between the two front wheels may cause the vehicle to lead to the side with the most
positive camber.
CROSS CAMBER
Cross camber is the difference between left and right camber. To achieve the cross camber reading, subtract the
right side camber reading from the left. For example, if the left camber is -0.2° and the right camber is -0.5°, the
cross camber would be 0.3° (-0.2 - (-0.5) = -0.2 + 0.5 = 0.3).
CASTER
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Fig. 109: Identifying Positive & Negative Caster
Caster is the forward or rearward tilt of the steering knuckle in reference to the position of the upper and lower
ball joints. Caster is measured in degrees of angle relative to a true vertical center line. This line is viewed from
the side of the tire and wheel assembly.
 Forward tilt (upper ball joint ahead of lower) results in a negative caster angle.
 Rearward tilt (upper ball joint trailing lower) results in a positive caster angle.
Although caster does not affect tire wear, a caster imbalance between the two front wheels may cause the
vehicle to lead to the side with the least positive caster.
CROSS CASTER
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Cross caster is the difference between left and right caster. To achieve the cross caster reading, subtract the right
side caster reading from the left. For example, if the left caster is 2.5° and the right caster is 2.7°, the cross
caster would be -0.2° (2.5 - 2.7 = -0.2).
TOE
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Fig. 110: Identifying Toe-In & Toe-Out
1 - TOE-IN
2 - TOE-OUT
Toe is the inward or outward angle of the wheels as viewed from above the vehicle .
 Toe-in (1) is produced when the front edges of the wheels on the same axle are closer together than the
rear edges.
 Toe-out (2) is produced when the front edges of the wheels on the same axle are farther apart than the rear
edges.
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Toe-in and toe-out can occur at both the front wheels and the rear wheels.
Toe is measured in degrees or inches. The measurement identifies the amount that the front of the wheels point
inward (toe-in) or outward (toe-out). Toe is measured at the spindle height. Zero toe means the front and rear
edges of the wheels on the same axle are equally distant (wheels are both pointing perfectly straight-ahead).
TOE-OUT ON TURNS
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Fig. 111: Identifying Toe-Out On Turns
1 - TOE-OUT ON TURNS
Toe-out on turns (1) is the relative positioning of the front wheels while steering through a turn. This
compensates for each front wheel's turning radius. As the vehicle encounters a turn, the outboard wheel must
travel in a larger radius circle than the inboard wheel. The steering system is designed to make each wheel
follow its particular radius circle. To accomplish this, the front wheels must progressively toe outward as the
steering is turned from center. This eliminates tire scrubbing and undue tire wear when steering a vehicle
through a turn.
DYNAMIC TOE PATTERN
Dynamic toe pattern is the inward and outward toe movement of the front and rear tires through the suspension's
jounce and rebound travel. As the vehicle's suspension moves up and down, the toe pattern varies. Toe pattern is
critical in controlling the directional stability of the vehicle while in motion. Front and rear dynamic toe pattern
is preset by the factory at the time the vehicle is assembled.
It is not necessary to check or adjust front or rear dynamic toe pattern when doing a normal wheel alignment.
The only time dynamic toe pattern needs to be checked or adjusted is if the frame of the vehicle has been
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damaged.
STEERING AXIS INCLINATION (S. A. I.)
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Fig. 112: Identifying Steering Axis Inclination, Included Angle, & Camber
1 - S.A.I.
2 - CAMBER
3 - I.A.
Steering axis inclination (1) is the angle between a true vertical line starting at the center of the tire at the road
contact point and a line drawn through the center of the upper ball joint (or strut) and the lower ball joint. S.A.I.
is built into the vehicle and is not an adjustable angle. If S.A.I. is not within specifications, a bent or damaged
suspension component may be the cause.
INCLUDED ANGLE (I. A.)
Included angle (3) is the sum of the S.A.I. (1) angle plus or minus the camber (2) angle, depending on whether
or not the wheel has positive or negative camber. If camber is positive, add the camber angle to the S.A.I. angle.
If camber is negative, subtract the camber angle from the S.A.I. angle. Included angle is not adjustable, but can
be used to diagnose a frame misalignment or bent suspension component (spindle, strut).
THRUST ANGLE
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Fig. 113: Identifying Positive & Negative Thrust Angle
Thrust angle is the averaged direction the rear wheels are pointing in relation to the vehicle's center line. The
presence of negative or positive thrust angle causes the rear tires to track improperly to the left or right of the
front tires (dog tracking).
 Negative thrust angle means the rear tires are tracking to the left of the front tires.
 Positive thrust angle means the rear tires are tracking to the right of the front tires.
Improper tracking can cause undue tire wear, a lead or pull and a crooked steering wheel. Excessive thrust angle
can usually be corrected by adjusting the rear wheel toe so that each wheel has one-half of the total toe
measurement.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
VEHICLE LEAD/PULL
Use Fig. 114 to diagnose and correct a vehicle lead or drift problem.
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Fig. 114: Vehicle Lead Diagnosis & Correction Chart
STANDARD PROCEDURE
CURB HEIGHT MEASUREMENT
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Wheel alignment is to be checked and all alignment adjustments made with the vehicle at its required curb
height specification.
Vehicle height is to be checked with the vehicle on a flat, level surface, preferably a vehicle alignment rack. The
tires are to be inflated to the recommended pressure. All tires are to be the same size as standard equipment.
Vehicle height is checked with the fuel tank full of fuel, and no passenger or luggage compartment load.
Vehicle height is not adjustable. If the measurement is not within specifications, inspect the vehicle for bent or
weak suspension components. Compare the parts tag on the suspect coil spring(s) to the parts book and the
vehicle sales code, checking for a match. Once removed from the vehicle, compare the coil spring height to a
correct new or known good coil spring. The heights should vary if the suspect spring is weak.
NOTE: Prior to reading the curb height measurement, the front and rear of the vehicle
must be jounced to settle the suspension. Induce jounce by pushing down on
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the center of the bumper (fascia), using care not to damage the vehicle, moving
the vehicle up and down, gradually increasing the suspension travel with each
stroke. Release the bumper at the bottom of each stroke, repeating this action
several times. Perform this to both front and rear suspensions an equal amount
of times.
Measure curb height as follows:
1. Jounce the vehicle. Refer to above note.
Fig. 115: Measuring Distance From Center Of Lower Control Arm Front Mounting Bolt To Floor
Or Alignment Rack/Lift Runway Surface
2. Front - On each side of the vehicle, measure the distance (2) from the center of the lower control arm
front mounting bolt (1) to the floor or alignment rack/lift runway surface. It may be necessary to measure
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to the bottom of a straight edge (3), placed from lift runway to runway, to get an accurate measurement.
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Fig. 116: Measuring Rear Left & Rear Right Curb Height
3. Rear Left- Measure the distance (5) from the track bar mounting bracket (1) outboard mounting flange to
the floor or alignment rack/lift runway surface. It may be necessary to measure to the bottom of a straight
edge (4), placed from lift runway to runway, to get an accurate measurement.
4. Rear Right - Measure the distance (3) from the frame rail cross-brace (2) outboard of the exhaust shield to
the floor or alignment rack/lift runway surface. It may be necessary to measure to the bottom of a straight
edge (4), placed from lift runway to runway, to get an accurate measurement.
5. Compare the measurements to specifications listed in the following CURB HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS
chart. Maximum left-to-right differential is not to exceed 12.5 mm (0.5 in.).
6. If curb height is found to be out of specification and there is no sign of excessive body damage, curb
height can be changed by replacing the applicable spring with a spring offering a different check load.
See Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension - Removal.
CURB HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS

TIRE SALES CODE/TIRE
FRONT REAR - LEFT REAR - RIGHT
SIZE
206 mm ± 12.5 mm 399 mm ± 12.5 mm 403 mm ± 12.5 mm
ALL
8.11 in. ± 0.49 in 15.71 in. ± 0.49 in 15.87 in. ± 0.49 in
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
PRE-WHEEL ALIGNMENT INSPECTION
Before any attempt is made to change or correct the wheel alignment, the following inspection and necessary
corrections must be made to ensure proper alignment.
1. Verify that the fuel tank is full of fuel. If the tank is not full, the reduction in weight will affect the curb
height of the vehicle and the alignment angles.
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2. The passenger and luggage compartments of the vehicle should be free of any load that is not factory
equipment.
3. Check the tires on the vehicle. All tires must be the same size and in good condition with approximately
the same amount of tread wear. Inflate all the tires to the recommended air pressure.
4. Check the front wheel and tire assemblies for excessive radial runout.
5. Inspect lower ball joints and all steering linkage for looseness, binding, wear or damage. Repair as
necessary.
6. Check suspension fasteners for proper torque and retighten as necessary.
7. Inspect all suspension component rubber bushings for signs of wear or deterioration. Replace any faulty
bushings or components before aligning the vehicle.
8. Check the vehicle's curb height to verify it is within specifications. See CURB HEIGHT
MEASUREMENT.
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WHEEL ALIGNMENT SETUP
1. Position the vehicle on an alignment rack.

2. Install all required alignment equipment on the vehicle per the alignment equipment manufacturer's
instructions. On this vehicle, a four-wheel alignment is recommended.
NOTE: Prior to reading the vehicle's alignment readouts, the front and rear of
vehicle should be jounced. Induce jounce (rear first, then front) by
grasping the center of the bumper and jouncing each end of vehicle an
equal number of times. The bumper should always be released when
vehicle is at the bottom of the jounce cycle.
3. Read the vehicle's current front and rear alignment settings. Compare the vehicle's current alignment
settings to the vehicle specifications for camber, caster and toe-in. See Specifications.
4. If front camber and caster are not within specifications, proceed to FRONT CAMBER AND CASTER .
If caster and camber are within specifications, proceed to TOE . Rear camber, caster and toe are not
adjustable. If found not to be within specifications, reinspect for damaged suspension or body
components and replace as necessary.
FRONT CAMBER AND CASTER
Front camber and caster settings on this vehicle are determined at the time the vehicle is designed, by the
location of the vehicle's suspension components. This is referred to as Net Build. The result is no required
adjustment of camber and caster after the vehicle is built or when servicing the suspension components. Thus,
when performing a wheel alignment, caster and camber are not normally considered adjustable angles but some
adjustment can be made. Camber and caster should be checked to ensure they meet vehicle specifications. See
Specifications.
If individual front camber or caster is found not to meet alignment specifications, each can be adjusted by
shifting the front crossmember or by using an available service adjustment bolt package. If an adjustment bolt
package installation is necessary, inspect the suspension components for any signs of damage or bending first.
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If individual front camber or caster is found to meet alignment specifications, but the vehicle pulls or leads in
one direction, crosscamber and crosscaster can be adjusted by shifting the front crossmember. Following
adjustment, make sure individual front camber and caster is within specifications. If not within specifications,
adjust as necessary by using an available service adjustment bolt package or by shifting the front crossmember.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to adjust the vehicle's wheel alignment by heating or

bending any of the suspension components.
ADJUSTMENT BY SHIFTING CROSSMEMBER
CAUTION: Always use care when shifting crossmember to avoid damaging other
components on the vehicle.
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1. Loosen the bolts fastening the front crossmember to the frame just enough to allow movement of the
crossmember. Refer to Frame and Bumpers/Frame/CROSSMEMBER - Removal
2. Loosen the bolts fastening the fore/aft crossmember to the frame just enough to allow movement of the
crossmember. Refer to Frame and Bumpers/Frame/CROSSMEMBER - Removal .
CAUTION: When shifting the front crossmember, keep in mind that the front and
rear engine mounts are attached to the front crossmember and
fore/aft crossmember and should be inspected following the
crossmember shift to make sure they are properly aligned.
3. Shift front crossmember as necessary (See FRONT CAMBER ADJUSTMENT and FRONT CASTER
ADJUSTMENT) to bring camber or caster into specifications. When shifting crossmember, use care not
to move other angles (camber or caster) that are within specifications, out of specifications.
FRONT CAMBER ADJUSTMENT

FRONT CAMBER ADJUSTMENT BY SHIFTING CROSSMEMBER*
CONDITION CORRECTION
Left Camber Below Specification Move crossmember to the right
Left Camber Above Specification Move crossmember to the left
Right Camber Below Specification Move crossmember to the left
Right Camber Above Specification Move crossmember to the right
Cross Camber Below Specification Move crossmember to the right
Cross Camber Above Specification Move crossmember to the left
Vehicle Leads Left Move crossmember to the left
Vehicle Leads Right Move crossmember to the right
* For every move to adjust one side of the vehicle, a countermove on the opposite side will occur.
FRONT CASTER ADJUSTMENT

FRONT CASTER ADJUSTMENT BY SHIFTING CROSSMEMBER
CONDITION CORRECTION
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Left Caster Below Specification Move left side of crossmember forward

Left Caster Above Specification Move left side of crossmember rearward
Right Caster Below Specification Move right side of crossmember forward
Right Caster Above Specification Move right side of crossmember rearward
Cross Caster Below Specification Move left side of crossmember forward and right side rearward
Cross Caster Above Specification Move left side of crossmember rearward and right side forward
Vehicle Leads Left Move left side of crossmember forward and right side rearward
Vehicle Leads Right Move left side of crossmember rearward and right side forward
4. Tighten all previously loosened fasteners (bolts) securing the crossmember to the vehicle to
specifications. Refer to Frame and Bumpers/Frame/CROSSMEMBER - Installation .
5. Jounce the rear, then front of the vehicle an equal amount of times.
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6. Measure camber and caster. If camber and caster are within specifications, proceed to TOE . If camber
cannot be brought into specifications, perform the CAMBER ADJUSTMENT BOLT PACKAGE
INSTALLATION .
CAMBER ADJUSTMENT BOLT PACKAGE INSTALLATION
1. Raise the vehicle until its tires are not supporting the weight of the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Quick
Reference/Hoisting - Standard Procedure .

2. Remove the wheel mounting nuts (3), then the front tire and wheel assembly (1).
CAUTION: When removing the steering knuckle from the strut clevis bracket, do
not put a strain on the brake flex hose. Also, do not let the weight of
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the steering knuckle assembly be supported by the brake flex hose

when removed from the strut assembly. If necessary use a wire
hanger to support the steering knuckle assembly or if required
remove the brake flex hose from the caliper assembly.
CAUTION: The strut clevis-to-knuckle attaching bolt shanks are serrated and
must not be turned during removal. Remove the nuts while holding
the bolts stationary, then tap the bolts out using a punch.
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3. If servicing left strut assembly:

knuckle.
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4. If servicing right strut assembly:

knuckle.
5. Separate the knuckle from the strut clevis bracket and position knuckle so it is out of the way of the strut.
Use care not to overextend the brake flex hose or axle half shaft.
Fig. 120: Slotting Bottom Hole In Both Sides Of Strut Clevis Bracket
CAUTION: When slotting the bottom mounting hole (3) on the strut clevis
bracket (4), do not enlarge the hole beyond the indentations (2) on
the sides of the strut clevis bracket.
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6. Using an appropriate grinder and grinding wheel, slot the bottom hole (3) in both sides of the strut clevis
bracket (4).
CAUTION: After slotting the strut clevis bracket hole, do not install the original
attaching bolts. Only the service package bolts and dog bone
washers must be used to attach the knuckle to the strut once the
mounting hole is slotted.
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a. Position lower end of strut assembly (1) in line with upper end of knuckle, aligning mounting holes.
Install two service package bolts (2). Be sure to place bolt with eccentric cam in bottom
b. Install a dog bone washer on the over the ends of the two mounting bolts.
c. Install service package strut clevis-to-knuckle nuts (3) on two service package bolts (2). While
holding bolts in place, tighten nuts just enough to hold steering knuckle in position when adjusting
camber, but still allowing steering knuckle to move in clevis bracket when needed.
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a. Position lower end of strut assembly (1) in line with upper end of knuckle, aligning mounting holes.
Install two service package bolts (2). Be sure to place bolt with eccentric cam in bottom
b. Install a dog bone washer on the over the ends of the two mounting bolts.
c. Install service package strut clevis-to-knuckle nuts (3) on two service package bolts (2). While
holding bolts in place, tighten nuts just enough to hold steering knuckle in position when adjusting
camber, but still allowing the steering knuckle to move in clevis bracket when needed.

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10. Perform Steps 1 through 9 to opposite side strut as required.
11. Lower vehicle.
12. Jounce front and rear of vehicle an equal amount of times.
13. Adjust front camber to preferred setting by rotating service package lower eccentric cam bolt against cam
stop areas on strut clevis bracket. Once camber is set, lightly tighten upper and lower strut clevis-to-
knuckle nuts.
14. Jounce front and rear of vehicle an equal amount of times and verify front camber setting.
15. While holding the service package bolts in place, tighten the strut clevis-to-knuckle nuts to 88 N.m (65 ft.
lbs.) plus an additional 90° turn after torque is met.
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16. If the toe readings obtained are not within the required specification range, adjust toe to meet the
preferred specification setting. Proceed to TOE to set the vehicle's toe.
TOE
1. Center the steering wheel and lock in place using a steering wheel clamp.
NOTE: Perform the following steps to each side of the vehicle as necessary.
CAUTION: Do not twist inner tie rod-to-steering gear boots during front wheel
Toe adjustment. Remove boot clamps at the inner tie rods and make
sure boots moves freely on inner tie rod.
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2. Loosen jam nut (3) at inner-to-outer tie rod connection.

3. Grasp inner tie rod at serrations (4) and rotate as necessary to adjust front toe to preferred toe
specification. See Specifications.
4. Tighten tie rod jam nut (3) to specifications. See Specifications.
5. Make sure inner tie rod-to-steering gear boot is not twisted, then reinstall boot clamp at inner tie rod.
6. Adjust front toe on opposite side of vehicle using above procedure as necessary.
7. Remove steering wheel clamp.
8. Remove alignment equipment.
9. Road test vehicle to verify steering wheel is straight and vehicle does not wander or pull.
SPECIFICATIONS
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WHEEL ALIGNMENT
NOTE: All specifications are given in degrees.
NOTE: All wheel alignments are to be set at curb height. See CURB HEIGHT
MEASUREMENT.
FRONT WHEEL
PREFERRED SETTING ACCEPTABLE RANGE
ALIGNMENT
CAMBER - LEFT +0.35° -0.05° to +0.75°
CAMBER - RIGHT +0.05° -0.35° to +0.45°
Cross-Camber (Maximum side- +0.30° -0.20° to +0.80°
to-side difference)
CASTER* +2.50° +1.50° to +3.50°
Cross-Caster (Maximum side-to-
0.00° -0.75° to +0.75°
side difference)
TOTAL TOE** +0.26° +0.06° to +0.46°
REAR WHEEL ALIGNMENT PREFERRED SETTING ACCEPTABLE RANGE
CAMBER* -0.06° -0.46° to +0.34°
Cross-Camber (Maximum side-
0.00° -0.25° to +0.25°
to-side difference)
TOTAL TOE* ** +0.10° -0.15° to +0.35°
THRUST ANGLE 0.00° -0.30° to +0.30°
Notes:
* For reference only. These are non-adjustable angles.
** TOTAL TOE is the sum of both left and right wheel toe settings. TOTAL TOE should be equally split
between each front wheel to ensure the steering wheel is centered after setting toe. Positive toe is toe-in
and negative toe is toe-out
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Front Suspension

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Front Suspension

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2009 Chrysler Town & Country LX

2009 SUSPENSION Front Suspension - Grand Caravan, Town & Country

Front Suspension - Grand Caravan, Town & Country

 Hub And Bearing (8)

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

contain asbestos. Aftermarket products may or may not contain asbestos.

Tie Rod Steering Arm Nut 75 + 245° turn 55 + 245° turn -

Fig. 3: Strut Nut Wrench 9362

Fig. 4: Remover C-4150A

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

ARM, LOWER CONTROL

7. Remove lower control arm (2).

Fig. 10: Identifying Tire & Wheel Assembly

mounting nuts (3) to 135 N.m (100 ft. lbs.).

BALL JOINT, SUSPENSION, LOWER

Diagnosis and Testing

LOWER BALL JOINT

Fig. 14: Identifying Tire & Wheel Assembly

4. Remove the ball joint dust boot (1).

Fig. 18: Identifying Tire & Wheel Assembly

4. Lower the vehicle.

BUSHING(S), LOWER CONTROL ARM

8. Remove lower control arm (2) from the engine cradle.

Fig. 25: Removing/Installing Front Engine Mount Thru-Bolt

HUB AND BEARING

Diagnosis and Testing

HUB AND BEARING

13. If servicing left knuckle:

14. If servicing right knuckle:

Inspect the knuckle for the following:

Fig. 54: Identifying Knuckle & Ball Joint Stud

2. Place knuckle (1) on ball joint stud (2).

CAUTION: If vehicle being serviced is equipped with eccentric cam strut

5. If servicing left knuckle:

6. If servicing right knuckle:

STABILIZER BAR, FRONT

NOTE: Before proceeding, see Front Suspension/Front - Warning.

6. Remove front engine mount thru-bolt (4).

Fig. 69: Removing/Installing Fore-Aft Crossmember

7. Remove fore-aft crossmember front mounting bolt (6).

one) to the rear of the crossmember.

Fig. 76: Removing/Installing Fore-Aft Crossmember

Fig. 80: Identifying Tire & Wheel Assembly

STRUT, SUSPENSION, ASSEMBLY

The strut assembly includes the following components:

 Upper mount (2)

Diagnosis and Testing

Inspect the strut assembly for the following conditions:

 Inspect for a damaged or broken coil spring (7).

6. If servicing left strut:

7. If servicing right strut:

Fig. 90: Removing/Installing Strut Assembly

10. To disassemble strut assembly, see Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension - Disassembly.

Fig. 93: Identifying Strut Assembly Components

NOTE: For reassembly, see Front Suspension/Front/STRUT, Suspension -

Fig. 95: Identifying Strut Assembly Components

Fig. 97: Removing/Installing Nut At End Of Strut Rod

Fig. 102: Removing/Installing Cowl Grille

CAUTION: If vehicle being serviced is equipped with eccentric cam strut

3. If servicing left strut:

4. If servicing right strut:

Fig. 105: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Bar Link At Bracket On Strut Assembly

 Front Camber (with camber bolt package and standard procedure)