Nissan 240sx S13 1989-1994 Front Suspension: tension rod, ball joint and more

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Nissan's S13 240SX uses a Macpherson strut-type front suspension system. System includes a coil spring, mounted over a vertically-mounted shock absorber, transverse link with ball joint, stabilizer bar and tension rod.

WHEEL BEARING ADJUSTMENTS

Wheel bearing is pressed into wheel hub and is not adjustable. To check wheel bearing, loosen hub nut and retighten to specification. Using a dial indicator, measure axial end play at wheel hub. Maximum axial play is .0012" (.03 mm). If reading exceeds specification, replace wheel bearing assembly.

BALL JOINT CHECKING

1. Jack up front of your Nissan 240sx and support with stands. Check ball joint for grease leakage and dust cover for cracks or damage. Check ball joint end play.
2. Attach dial indicator to transverse link with indicator tip against lower edge of brake caliper. Ensure front wheels are pointed straight-ahead. Place a pry bar between transverse link and wheel.
3. With brake pedal depressed, raise and release pry bar. Observe dial indicator. There should be zero vertical end play. If reading exceeds specification, replace ball joint.
4. Remove wheel. Separate transverse link from ball joint. Attach torque wrench to top of ball joint stud nut. Measure ball joint stud turning torque.

• Nissan S13 240SX: 4.3-30.4 inch Lbs. (.49-3.43 N.m.)

5. Using a spring gauge, measure ball joint side-to-side torque. Side-to-side torque should be 1.8-12.3 lbs. (0.8-5.6 kg). If readings exceed specification, replace ball joint.


COIL SPRING AND STRUT ASSEMBLY


Removal
1. Raise and support your Nissan 240sx. Remove wheel. Remove bolts holding strut to knuckle arm. Detach knuckle arm from bottom of strut. Remove 3 nuts holding upper end of strut to body. DO NOT remove piston rod nut.
2. Remove spring/strut assembly from vehicle. Secure strut lower end in a soft-jawed vise. Slightly loosen piston rod nut. Compress spring with spring compressor and remove piston rod nut. Slowly release compressor tension. Remove spring from strut.

Inspection
Check strut for smooth operation through a full stroke, both compression and extension. Check for oil leakage. Check piston for cracks, deformation or other damage.

Installation
Ensure flat spring surface is facing upward. Install spring onto strut assembly. Ensure cutout on upper spring seat faces inward on vehicle. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification.

HUB AND KNUCKLE ASSEMBLY REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

1. Raise and support your Nissan 240sx. Remove wheel. Remove brake caliper bolts and wire caliper aside. Remove rotor. Remove wheel bearing dust cover, cotter pin, lock nut and lock washer from steering knuckle. Remove hub assembly from steering knuckle. Remove tie rod-to-steering knuckle nut. Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle.
2. Remove ball joint nut and separate ball joint from steering knuckle. Remove steering knuckle-to-strut assembly bolts. Remove steering knuckle assembly. To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts and bolts to specification.


Click on the link to see the complete article with images check it out here: 240sx Front Suspension (S13): tension rod, ball joint, wheel bearings and more. Garage411.com