Rear coil spring (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - removal and refitting

Models with rear drum brakes 1 Remove the relevant driveshaft.

2 Unscrew the brake pipe from the brake hose at the bracket on the vehicle underbody.

Plug the ends of the pipe and hose to prevent leakage and dirt ingress.

3 Where applicable, prise the anti-roll bar connecting strap from the lower arm.

4 Support the lower arm on a jack, and raise it slightly to place the coil spring under load.

5 On Saloon and Hatchback models, unscrew and remove the shock absorber lower mounting bolt and nut from the lower arm.

6 On Estate models fitted with standard shock absorbers, remove the shock absorber as described in Section 12. On Estate models fitted with heavy duty Nivomat shock absorbers, disconnect the upper and lower mountings.

7 Unscrew and remove the three bolts securing the front guide plate to the underbody and the suspension crossmember.

Where applicable, bend back the lockwasher tab(s) on the larger bolt.

8 Lower the lower arm, and remove the coil spring, or coil spring/heavy duty shock absorber as applicable, and the rubber cup.

9 Refitting is a reversal of removal, bearing in mind the following points.

10 Where applicable, secure the larger front guide plate bolt by bending up the lockwasher tab(s).

11 Refit the driveshaft.

12 On completion, bleed the brakes.

Models with rear disc brakes 13 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the vehicle and support on axle stands placed under the side members.

14 Disconnect the driveshaft from the hub assembly by unscrewing the six securing bolts. Support the driveshaft to avoid straining the joints, or alternatively, unbolt it from the final drive unit at the inboard end and remove the driveshaft from the vehicle. At all times, avoid bending the driveshaft joints to excessive angles, and do not allow the shaft to hang down from one end.

15 Proceed as shown in paragraphs 2 to 8 inclusive.

16 Refitting is a reversal of removal. Where applicable, secure the larger front guide plate bolt by bending up the lockwasher tab(s), and on completion, bleed the brakes.

    See also:

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