Dodge Durango

 Service Manual

Suspension » Front suspension - 4x4 » Description and operation
Suspension components 4x4

DESCRIPTION

The front suspension is designed to allow each wheel to adapt to different road surfaces independently.

The wheels are mounted to hub/bearings units bolted to cast steering knuckle. The double-row hub bearings are sealed and lubricated for life. The steering knuckles turn (pivot) on ball joints. The upper ball joint is riveted to the outboard portion of the suspension arm and lubricated for life. The lower ball joint is pressed into the lower suspension arm and requires lubrication.

The front suspension is comprised of (Fig. 1):

• Shock absorbers
• Torsion-bar springs
• Suspension arms
• Steering knuckles
• Stabilizer bar

CAUTION: Components attached with a nut and cotter pin must be torqued to specification. Then if the slot in the nut does not line up with the cotter pin hole, tighten nut until it is aligned. Never loosen the nut to align the cotter pin hole. CAUTION: Suspension components with rubber/ urethane bushings (except stabilizer bar) should be tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. It is important to have the springs supporting the weight of the vehicle when the fasteners are torqued. If springs are not at their normal ride position, vehicle ride comfort could be affected and premature bushing wear may occur.

Fig. 1 Front Suspension 4x4

1 - UPPER SUSPENSION ARM

2 - SHOCK ABSORBER

3 - STABILIZER BAR

4 - LOWER SUSPENSION ARM

5 - TORSION BAR

NOTE: Periodic lubrication of the front suspension/ steering system components may be required. Rubber bushings must never be lubricated. Refer to Group 0, Lubrication And Maintenance for the recommended maintenance schedule.

Suspension components 4x4

Shock absorbers

Torsion bars

Steering knuckle

Suspension arms

Stabilizer bar