Rear suspension (pic. 1.2.a) also consists of a MacPherson strut, four wishbones (two front and two rear) and two trailing arms. The upper end of the flock is attached to the car body. The lower end of the rack rests against the support of the rear axle hub. The outer ends of the transverse levers are attached to the lower parts of the hub supports with bolts. In the longitudinal direction, the hub supports are fixed with the help of longitudinal levers. The anti-roll bar is attached to the body with two brackets, and to the transverse levers with earrings (pic. 1.2b).
The rack and pinion steering mechanism is located behind the engine, on a subframe. It is connected to the steering knuckles with the help of steering rods. The inner ends of the rods are protected by rubber covers. It is necessary to periodically inspect these covers and check that they are not broken or leaking grease.
The power steering consists of a hydraulic pump and a hose and pipe system. Periodically check the presence of oil in the booster pump reservoir (see chapter 1).
The steering wheel is mounted on the steering shaft, which is connected to the steering mechanism by means of a cardan joint. Increased steering play may be due to wear on the cardan joint, rack and pinion, tie rod end joints, or loose steering component mounting bolts.
Often when performing repairs on the suspension or steering gear, you will find connections that cannot be loosened. The fact is that these compounds are exposed to water, dirt, etc., which leads to rust. To facilitate the disassembly of these connections, moisten them liberally with thin oil or special liquid and allow it to soak for some time, clean the nuts and bolts with a wire brush. In extreme cases, you can try to unscrew the connection by first tapping it with a hammer. Facilitates the disassembly and heating of the connection with a soldering pump, although in this case there is an obvious fire hazard. Sometimes, to loosen a nut, you must first compress it. Broken or damaged connections must be replaced with new ones during assembly.
Because the procedures in this chapter require the vehicle to be raised. You will need a pair of reliable supports under the car. A hydraulic trolley jack is preferred as it allows the various components to be lifted and supported during disassembly and reassembly.
Attention! Never, under any circumstances, crawl under a vehicle that is not on a jack. If you are removing any suspension or steering fastener, inspect it carefully and if necessary. replace with a new one» the same type, size and quality. Torque tighten connections. given in Technical Data. Never heat or straighten suspension or steering components. Replace all damaged and deformed parts with new ones.