Suspension - Lateral Rod/Precaution During Jacking

86mitsubishi02

SUBJECT:
PRECAUTIONS AGAINST DAMAGE TO THE GALANT REAR SUSPENSION LATERAL ROD
NO. STB-86-17-002

DATE December, 1986

MODEL Galant

FIGURE 1:

PURPOSE

This bulletin contains precautionary information that can be helpful in avoiding damage to the rear suspension lateral rod in the 1985-87 Galant.

The lateral rod (See Fig. 1) extends between the car body and the rear axle. It is pivoted at both ends so that it allows the rear axle to go up and down over bumps while holding it laterally in position as the car rounds curves. The lateral rod is strong in tension or compression but can be bent by a side load. Once bent, it loses compressive strength and may eventually become fractured due to fatigue.

FIGURE 2:

PRECAUTION

1. Never attempt to raise the car by jacking the lateral rod.

2. When attaching a sling-type towing device to the Galant rear axle beam, be sure the J-hooks on the towing sling do not press against the lateral rod (Fig. 2)

3. Always replace a lateral rod that is bent. Efforts to straighten a bent lateral rod are almost certain to be unsuccessful.