Front suspension (Spring Data): Description and operation

Spring Data

The following table shows spring fitment applicablity.

Spring Fitment Applicability

The following table shows standard springs and uprated springs required when a front winch is fitted.

Winch Fitment Spring Applicability

Panhard rod

A Panhard rod is used to ensure that the axle remains centrally located. The Panhard rod has bushes pressed into housings at each end which provide for the attachment to the axle and chassis. One end of the Panhard rod locates in a fabricated bracket on the axle and is secured with a bolt and locknut. The opposite end is attached to a fabricated bracket on the chassis and is also secured with a bolt and a locknut. The Panhard rod is shaped at one end to allow clearance for the axle casing.

The attachment bolts for the Panhard rod are coated with a clear, dry wax which reduces friction on the bolt and allows the correct torque to be applied to the clamping of the bushes. The bolts can be re-used, but if bolt replacement is necessary the correct bolt with the wax coating must be used.

On models from 03 Model Year, the Panhard rod is shortened by 30 mm (1.18 in). This modification was introduced to enhance the suspension bump steer characteristics in line with other suspension improvements introduced simultaneously. The change to the Panhard rod also required the relocation of the attachment brackets on the axle casing and the chassis.