On-Vehicle Service

Check front axle and front suspension parts for excessive play, cracks, wear or other damage.

• Shake each front wheel to check for excessive play.
• Make sure that cotter pin is inserted.
• Retighten all axle and suspension nuts and bolts to the specified torque. Refer to "COMPONENTS ".
  Fig 1: Checking Wheel Play

  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
• Check strut (shock absorber) for oil leakage or other damage.
• Check suspension ball joint for grease leakage and ball joint dust cover for cracks or other damage.

  If ball joint dust cover is cracked or damaged, replace transverse link.

  Fig 2: Checking Strut (Shock Absorber) And Ball Joint For Grease Leakage

  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
• Check spring height from top of wheelarch to the ground.
  • Vehicle must be unladen*, parked on a level surface, and tires checked for proper inflation and wear (tread wear indicator must not be showing).

    *: Fuel, radiator coolant and engine oil full. Spare tire, jack, hand tools and mats in designated positions.

  • Bounce vehicle up and down several times before measuring.

    Standard height: Refer to " WHEELARCH HEIGHT (UNLADEN*)  ". 

  • Spring height is not adjustable. If out of specification, check for worn springs or suspension parts.
  Fig 3: Identifying Standard Height

  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
• Check suspension ball joint end play.
  • Jack up front of vehicle and set the stands.
  • Clamp dial indicator onto transverse link and place indicator tip on lower edge of brake caliper.
  • Make sure front wheels are straight and brake pedal is depressed.
  • Place a pry bar between transverse link and inner rim of road wheel.
  • While raising and releasing pry bar, observe maximum dial indicator value.
    Fig 4: Placing Pry Bar Between Transverse Link And Inner Rim Of Road Wheel

    Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.

    Vertical end play: 0 mm (0 in) 

  • If ball joint movement is beyond specifications, remove and replace it.