Bolt/Chassis Check
Planning to hit the trail this weekend? Before you head out, always do a thorough check of all your suspension fasteners. Get under there and check control arm bolts, track bar bolts and steering components and steering box bolts for proper torque. If you find any loose bolts, check to make sure that loose bolt hasn’t ovalled out the hole in part that it’s in. While you’re there, inspect the frame and axles for any obvious signs of damage. Pay special attention to the factory control arm and trackbar brackets, shackle brackets, spring mounts and swaybar mounts, as any twisted parts, cracks, rust or corrosion could be a sign of potential failure. Also look for shiny metal spots, or “witness marks” on all of your suspension components. Loose, worn or improperly set-up suspension parts could be allowing unwanted contact between components. Inspect all of your suspension bushings and joints for damage and replace as necessary. Move on to your shocks and check for dents, leaks or other damage, and check all of the shock hardware for tightness. Last but not least, don’t forget to check those lug nuts!
Everything checks out? Go ahead and grease your ball joints, tie rod ends and suspension joints. Remember, an ounce of prevention can save a ton of trouble when you’re way out in the boonies! Next time: Drivetrain Inspection 101
