Front Suspension System: Spring: Installation

Fig 1: Locating Lower Arm Hole

Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.

NOTE:

• The end of the coil spring must cover the first hole and should not be visible in the second hole of the lower arm.

1. Install the coil spring in the lower arm.
2. Using a suitable jack, support the front suspension lower arm.
   CAUTION:

   • Always install the cotter pin into the lower ball joint nut from outboard to inboard. Failure to do so will result in damage to the wheel and tire assembly.
3. Position the lower ball joint and install a new nut.
   • Tighten to 133 N-m (13.6 kgf-m, 98 ft-lbf).
   • Install a new cotter pin.
4. Remove the jack from under the lower control arm.
5. Install the stabilizer bar link assembly.
   • Install the stabilizer bar link stud and grommet.
   • Install a new stabilizer bar link nut and grommet.
   • Tighten to 25 N-m (2.5 kgf-m, 18 ft-lbf).
   Fig 2: Installing Stabilizer Bar Link Nut And Grommet

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
6. Remove the spring compressor.
7. Position the shock absorber and install 2 new shock absorber lower nuts.
   • Tighten to 25 N-m (2.5 kgf-m, 18 ft-lbf).
8. Install a new shock absorber rod nut and washer.
   1. Tighten to 48 N-m (4.9 kgf-m, 35 ft-lbf).
   Fig 3: Locating Index-Mark On Lower Arm And Frame

   Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
9. Position a suitable jack under the front suspension lower arm and raise the suspension until the index-marks on the lower arm and the frame are aligned (curb height).
   • Tighten the rearward bolt (LH side) to 200 N-m (20.4 kgf-m, 148 ft-lbf).
   • Tighten the rearward bolt (RH side) to 175 N-m (17.8 kgf-m, 129 ft-lbf).
   • Tighten the forward bolt to 200 N-m (20.4 kgf-m, 148 ft-lbf).
10. Remove the jack from under the lower control arm.