GILLIG LOW FLOOR, Руководство по обслуживанию

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65
Suspension
Drag Link
The drag link assembly consists of a tube and two end assemblies. One end assembly is crimped onto
the tube and is not serviceable. The other, at the pitman arm end, is replaceable. It is held in place by
a clamp. Length adjustment is provided by the threaded end of the rod and tube at this end of the drag
link.
NEVER attempt to adjust the crimped (steering arm) end assembly of
the drag link! Adjustment of the crimped end may result in catastrophic
drag link failure.
The drag link ends require no attention in service other than periodic lubrication and inspection to ensure
the ball studs and ball stud sockets are tight. Replace the link end when there is excessive up and down
motion, lost motion, or end play at the ball end of the stud.
Drag Link Removal
1. Remove the cotter pins and nuts which attach the drag link to the pitman and steering arms.
2. Remove the ball studs from the pitman arm and steering arm while tapping on the arm with a
light hammer and using a heavy hammer as backing. Push on the drag link to remove it. Replace
any drag link tube or end assemblies if they are damaged in any way.
Drag Link Installation
1. Install the rod end assembly on the pitman arm end of the drag link tube. Adjust drag link length
if necessary.
2. Make sure the threads on the stud and stud nut are clean and not damaged and are free from all
foreign material on the taper.
3. Position the ball studs in the holes in the pitman and steering arm. Install the appropriate nut on
each stud and tighten.
Use a torque wrench only. DO NOT use an impact wrench.
4. Use a torque wrench to tighten the ball nuts to 225 ft-lbs of torque. Advance the nut to the next
aligning slot and install a new cotter pin in the castle nut. Under no circumstances may the
nut be backed-off in order to align the slot with the hole. If the torque exceeds the maximum
value when installing the cotter, remove the nut and install it again, stopping at the lower torque
limit before installing the cotter. After installation, lubricate the end socket.