1994 JEEP CHEROKEE flat tire

ROUTINE SERVICE
The following routine vehicle service is highly rec-
ommended on a monthly basis.
TIRESÐInspect the tires for unusual wear/damage
and determine if the inflation pressure is acceptable
for the vehicle load.
BATTERYÐInspect and clean the terminals.
Tighten the terminals, if necessary.
FLUIDSÐDetermine if the coolant, brake fluid,
power steering, automatic transmission, and clutch
fluid level are acceptable. Add fluid, if necessary.
LIGHTS/ELECTRICALÐTest all the electrically
operated systems in the vehicle for proper operation.
It is also recommended that the engine oil level
and the windshield washer fluid level be deter-
mined (and corrected) during each fuel fill-up.
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
All Jeeptengines require the use of unleaded gas-
oline. In addition, the fuel must have a minimum oc-
tane rating of 87.
CAUTION: UNLEADED FUEL ONLY must be used in
vehicles equipped with a catalyst emission control
system. All vehicles have reminders printed on the
instrument panel (Fig. 1) and on the fuel filler door
(Fig. 2). Vehicles also have fuel filler tubes that are
designed to accept only the small-diameter un-
leaded gasoline nozzles. It is illegal to defeat the
design of an unleaded fuel filler tube.
CLASSIFICATION OF LUBRICANTS
Lubricating fluids and chassis component lubri-
cants are classified and graded according to stan-
dards recommended by the:
²Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE),²American Petroleum Institute (API), and
²National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI).
ENGINE OIL
SAE VISCOSITY GRADE
An SAE viscosity grade is used to specify viscosity
of engine oil. SAE 30 specifies a single viscosity en-
gine oil. Engine oils also have multiple viscosities
(Fig. 3).
The viscosity grade of an oil is an indicator of its
thickness or flow capability. The lower the number,
the better the flow. The second viscosity grade num-
ber (without a W suffix) is the warm/hot-temperature
viscosity. The viscosity increases with engine temper-
ature. With a single viscosity grade, the oil viscosity
is valid only for one narrow temperature range.
Fig. 1 Unleaded Fuel Only RemindersÐFuel Gauge
Fig. 2 Unleaded Fuel Only ReminderÐFuel Filler
Door
Fig. 3 SAE Oil Viscosity Grade & API Service Grade
0 - 2 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

When the transfer case is in the NEUTRAL po-
sition, both axles are disengaged from the pow-
ertrain. This allows the vehicle to be towed
without removing the drive shafts.
(2) Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
(3) The vehicle can now be towed with the front
wheels raised (refer to Sling-Type, Front-End Tow-
ing).
VEHICLE DOORS LOCKED
Place a tow dolly under the rear wheels (Fig. 14)
and tow with the front end raised (refer to Sling-
Type, Front-End Towing).
4WD EMERGENCY TOWINGÐTRANSFER CASE
NOT SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL
When a situation arises and the transfer case can-
not be shifted to NEUTRAL, any of the following
methods can be used to tow a 4WD vehicle.
Drive shafts not removed, place the rear
wheels on a tow dolly and tow with the front
end raised.
Drive shafts not removed, place the front
wheels on a tow dolly and tow with the rear end
raised.
Rear drive shaft removed, tow with the front
end raised.
Front drive shaft removed, tow with the rear
end raised.
Both drive shafts removed, tow with all four
wheels on the road surface.
(1) Turn ignition key switch to the unlocked (OFF)
position.
(2) Shift the transmission to the NEUTRAL posi-
tion.
(3) Determine the method by which the vehicle
will be towed and prepare the vehicle for towing.
(4) Connect the vehicle to the tow vehicle. Refer to
the applicable procedure.
FLAT TOWING (4 TIRES/WHEELS ON
SURFACE)
Tow a vehicle in this manner only when all four
wheels will freely rotate. Prepare the vehicle accord-
ing to the following procedures.
2WD VEHICLES
(1) Mark the drive shaft and the axle drive pinion
gear shaft yoke for installation alignment reference.
(2) Remove the drive shaft. Install a protective
covering over the drive shaft U-joints to retain them
assembled and protected.
(3) Cover the open end of the transmission exten-
sion housing.4WD VEHICLES
(1) Mark the drive shafts and the axle drive pinion
gear shaft yokes for installation alignment reference.
(2) Remove the drive shafts. Install a protective
covering over the drive shaft U-joints/CV-joints to re-
tain them assembled and protected.
(3) Cover the exposed ends of the transfer case.
CAUTION: Whenever a drive shaft has been re-
moved and installed, check the transmission fluid
level of the transmission and transfer case. Driving
a vehicle with low tranfer case fluid can damage the
transmission and transfer case.
EMERGENCY TOW HOOKS
WARNING: REMAIN AT A SAFE DISTANCE FROM A
VEHICLE THAT IS BEING TOWED VIA ITS TOW
HOOKS. THE TOW STRAPS/CHAINS COULD POSSI-
BLY BREAK AND CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
Some Jeeptvehicles are equipped with emergency
tow hooks located at the front end (Fig. 15). Some
Jeeptvehicles also have emergency tow hooks lo-
cated at the rear ende. The tow hooks should be used
forEMERGENCYpurposes only.
CAUTION: DO NOT use emergency tow hooks for
tow truck hook-up or highway towing.
Fig. 15 Emergency Front Tow HooksÐXJ & YJ
Vehicles
0 - 12 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

(6) Inspect the disc brake caliper dust boot for cor-
rect installation, damage/tears and indications of
brake fluid leakage. Inspect the bushings and pins
for corrosion, tears and a binding condition.
(7) Pull the rear wheel cylinder dust boot back to
expose the wheel cylinder housing and inspect for
fluid leaks. Inspect the pistons and cylinder bores for
proper appearance.
(8) Inspect the brake differential warning valve
and housing for indications of leakage, kinked hoses
and loose fittings.
PARK BRAKE
(1) As applicable, engage the park brake lever or
pedal and then release it.
(2) If the park brake is functioning normally, test
it for smooth operation and vehicle-holding capabil-
ity.
(3) Inspect the park brake cables for kinks, fraying
and a binding condition.
(4) With the park brake released, the rear wheels
should rotate without restriction. Adjust the park
brake cable tension at the equalizer (Fig. 10), if nec-
essary.
(5) Repair any park brake malfunctions.
BRAKE OPERATIONAL TEST
(1) Drive the vehicle and test for proper brake ac-
tion.
(2) Note any indication of drum/rotor overheating,
wheel dragging or the vehicle pulling to one side
when the brakes are applied.
(3) Evaluate any performance complaints received
from the owner/operator.
(4) Repair the brake system as necessary (refer to
Group 5ÐBrakes for additional information and ser-
vice procedures).
TIRES
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
The general condition of the tires and the inflation
pressures should be inspected at the same time the
engine oil is changed and the oil filter is replaced.
In addition, the tires/wheels should be rotated pe-
riodically to ensure even tread wear and maximum
tread life. The tires/wheels should be rotated initially
after the first 12 000-km (7,500-miles). Thereafter,
after each 24 000-km (15,000-miles) interval of vehi-
cle operation has elapsed.
INSPECTION
Inspect the tires for excessive wear, damage, etc.
Test the tires for the recommended inflation pres-
sure. Refer to the tire inflation pressure decal located
on the inside of the glove box door, and also to Group
22ÐTires And Wheels.
ROTATION
Refer to Group 22ÐTires And Wheels for the rec-
ommended method of tire/wheel rotation for a Jeept
vehicle.
BODY COMPONENTS
RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE
Body components should be lubricated (as required)
after each 48 000-km (30,000-miles) interval of vehi-
cle operation has elapsed.
LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS
All applicable exterior and interior body compo-
nents should be:
²inspected for excessive wear,
²cleaned, and
²all pivot/sliding contact areas of the components
should be lubricated with the specified lubricant.
Refer to the Body Lubricant Specifications chart
below. When excessive wear is apparent, replace/re-
pair as necessary.
LUBRICATION
All pivoting and sliding contact areas, including:
²seat tracks,
²door hinges/latches/strikers, and
²liftgate/tailgate/hood hinges (Fig. 11),
should be lubricated periodically to ensure quiet,
easy operation and to protect against wear and cor-
rosion.
(1) As required, lubricate the body components
with the specified lubricants.
(2) When lubricating door weatherstrip seals, ap-
ply the lubricant to a cloth and wipe it on the seal.
(3) Prior to the application of lubricant, the compo-
nent should be wiped clean to remove dust, grit and
debris. After lubrication, any excess lubricant should
be removed.
Fig. 10 Park Brake Equalizer (XJ)ÐTypical
0 - 34 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCEJ

SERVICE BRAKE DIAGNOSIS
INDEX
page page
Component Inspection...................... 8
Diagnosing Parking Brake Problems.......... 10
Diagnosing Service Brake Problems........... 8
Diagnosis Procedures...................... 7
General Information........................ 7Master Cylinder/Power Booster Test.......... 11
Power Booster Check Valve Test............ 11
Power Booster Vacuum Test................ 12
Preliminary Brake Check.................... 7
Road Testing............................ 7
GENERAL INFORMATION
The diagnosis information in this section covers
service brake components which include:
²disc brake calipers
²disc brakeshoes
²drum brake wheel cylinders
²drum brakeshoes and brake drums
²drum brake support plates
²parking brake mechanism
²master cylinder/combination valve
²vacuum power brake booster
²brake pedal and brakelight switch
²brake warning light
DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES
Service brake diagnosis involves determining if a
problem is related to a mechanical, hydraulic or vac-
uum operated component. A preliminary brake
check, followed by road testing and component in-
spection are needed to determine a problem cause.
Road testing will either verify proper brake opera-
tion or confirm the existence of a problem. Compo-
nent inspection will, in most cases, identify the
actual part responsible for a problem.
The first diagnosis step is the preliminary brake
check. This involves inspecting fluid level, parking
brake action, wheel and tire condition, checking for
obvious leaks or component damage and testing
brake pedal response. A road test will confirm or
deny the existence of a problem. The final diagnosis
procedure involves road test analysis and a visual in-
spection of brake components.
PRELIMINARY BRAKE CHECK
(1) If amber antilock light is illuminated, refer to
Antilock Brake System Diagnosis. However, if red
warning light is illuminated, or if neither warning
light is illuminated, continue with diagnosis.
(2) Check condition of tires and wheels. Damaged
wheels and worn, damaged, or underinflated tires
can cause pull, shudder, tramp and a condition simi-
lar to grab.
(3) If complaint was based on noise when braking,
check suspension components. Jounce front and rearof vehicle and listen for noise that might be caused
by loose, worn, or damaged suspension or steering
components.
(4) Inspect brake fluid level:
(a) If vehicle has one-piece master cylinder, fluid
level should be to 6 mm (1/4 in.) of reservoir rim. If
vehicle two-piece, removable reservoir, correct level
is to top of indicator rings in reservoir.
(b) On models with ABS brakes, preferred level
is to MAX mark on reservoir. Acceptable level is
between MAX and MIN marks.
(c) Remember that fluid level in the front and
rear reservoir compartments will decrease in pro-
portion to normal lining wear. However, if fluid
level is abnormally low, look for leaks at calipers,
wheel cylinders, brakelines and master cylinder.
(5) Inspect brake fluid condition:
(a) Fluid should be reasonably clear and free of
foreign material.Note that brake fluid tends to
darken over time. This is normal and should
not be mistaken for contamination. If fluid is
clear of foreign material, it is OK.
(b) If fluid is highly discolored, or appears to con-
tain foreign material, drain out a sample with a
clean suction gun. Pour sample in a glass container
and note condition.
(c) If fluid separates into layers, obviously con-
tains oil, or a substance other than brake fluid,
system seals and cups will have to be replaced and
hydraulic system flushed.
(6) Check parking brake operation. Verify free
movement and full release of cables and foot pedal or
hand lever. Also note if vehicle was being operated
with parking brake partially applied.
(7) Check brake pedal operation. Verify that pedal
does not bind and has adequate free play. If pedal
lacks free play, check pedal and power booster for be-
ing loose or for bind condition. Do not road test until
condition is corrected.
(8) If components inspected look OK, road test the
vehicle.
ROAD TESTING
(1) If amber warning light is illuminated, problem
is with antilock system component. Refer to Antilock
Brake System Diagnosis.
JBRAKES 5 - 7

when the cover is off. The second involves adding to,
or filling the cylinder reservoirs with a non-recom-
mended fluid.
Brake fluid contaminated with only dirt, or debris
usually retains a normal appearance. In some cases,
the foreign material will remain suspended in the
fluid and be visible. The fluid and foreign material
can be removed from the reservoir with a suction
gun but only if the brakes have not been applied. If
the brakes are applied after contamination, system
flushing will be required. The master cylinder may
also have to be disassembled, cleaned and the piston
seals replaced. Foreign material lodged in the reser-
voir compensator/return ports can cause brake drag
by restricting fluid return after brake application.
Brake fluid contaminated by a non-recommended
fluid will usually be discolored, milky, oily looking,
or foamy. In some cases, it may even appear as if the
fluid contains sludge.However, remember that
brake fluid will darken in time and occasionally
be cloudy in appearance. These are normal con-
ditions and should not be mistaken for contami-
nation.
If some type of oil has been added to the system,
the fluid will separate into distinct layers. To verify
this, drain off a sample with a clean suction gun.
Then pour the sample into a glass container and ob-
serve fluid action. If the fluid separates into distinct
layers, it is definitely contaminated.
The only real correction for contamination by non-
recommended fluid is to flush the entire hydraulic
system and replace all the seals.
BRAKE NOISE
Squeak/Squeal
Brake squeak or squeal may be due to linings that
are wet or contaminated with brake fluid, grease, or
oil. Glazed linings and rotors with hard spots can
also contribute to squeak. Dirt and foreign material
embedded in the brake lining will also cause squeak/
squeal.
A very loud squeak or squeal is frequently a sign
of severely worn brake lining. If the lining has worn
through to the brakeshoes in spots, metal-to-metal
contact occurs. If the condition is allowed to continue,
rotors can become so scored that replacement is nec-
essary.
Thump/Clunk
Thumping or clunk noises during braking are fre-
quentlynotcaused by brake components. In many
cases, such noises are caused by loose or damaged
steering, suspension, or engine components. How-
ever, calipers that bind on the slide surfaces can gen-
erate a thump or clunk noise. In addition, worn out,
improperly adjusted, or improperly assembled rear
brakeshoes can also produce a thump noise.Chatter/Shudder
Brake chatter, or shudder is usually caused by
loose or worn components, or glazed/burnt lining. Ro-
tors with hard spots can also contribute to chatter.
Additional causes of chatter are out of tolerance ro-
tors, brake lining not securely attached to the shoes,
loose wheel bearings and contaminated brake lining.
BRAKELINING CONTAMINATION
Brakelining contamination is usually a product of
leaking calipers or wheel cylinders, driving through
deep water puddles, or lining that has become cov-
ered with grease and grit during repair.
WHEEL AND TIRE PROBLEMS
Some conditions attributed to brake components
may actually be caused by a wheel or tire problem.
A damaged wheel can cause shudder, vibration and
pull. A worn or damaged tire can also cause pull.
Severely worn tires with very little tread left can
produce a condition similar to grab as the tire loses
and recovers traction.
Flat-spotted tires can cause vibration and wheel
tramp and generate shudder during brake operation.
A tire with internal damage such as a severe
bruise or ply separation can cause pull and vibration.
DIAGNOSING PARKING BRAKE PROBLEMS
Adjustment Mechanism
Parking brake adjustment is controlled by a
cable tensioner mechanism. This applies to 1991
through 1994 YJ models and 1992 and later XJ
models. The cable tensioner, once adjusted at
the factory, will not need further adjustment un-
der normal circumstances. There are only two
instances when adjustment is required. The first
is when a new tensioner, or cables have been in-
stalled. And the second, is when the tensioner
and cables are disconnected for access to other
brake components.
Parking Brake problem Causes
In most cases, the actual cause of an improperly
functioning parking brake (too loose/too tight/wont
hold), can be traced to a drum brake component.
The leading cause of improper parking brake
operation, is excessive clearance between the
brakeshoes and the drum surface. Excessive
clearance is a result of: lining and/or drum wear;
oversize drums; or inoperative shoe adjuster
components.
Excessive parking brake lever travel (sometimes
described as a loose lever or too loose condition), is
the result of worn brakeshoes/drums, improper
brakeshoe adjustment, or mis-assembled brake parts.
A ``too loose'' condition can also be caused by inop-
erative brakeshoe adjusters. If the adjusters are mis-
5 - 10 BRAKESJ

(3) Honing should be done by moving the hone up
and down fast enough to get a crosshatch pattern.
The hone marks should INTERSECT at 50É to 60É for
proper seating of rings (Fig. 1).
(4) A controlled hone motor speed between 200 and
300 RPM is necessary to obtain the proper crosshatch
angle. The number of up and down strokes per
minute can be regulated to get the desired 50É to 60É
angle. Faster up and down strokes increase the cross-
hatch angle.
(5) After honing, it is necessary that the block be
cleaned to remove all traces of abrasive. Use a brush
to wash parts with a solution of hot water and deter-
gent. Dry parts thoroughly. Use a clean, white, lint-
free cloth to check that the bore is clean. Oil the
bores after cleaning to prevent rusting.
MEASURING WITH PLASTIGAGE
CRANKSHAFT MAIN BEARING CLEARANCE
Engine crankshaft bearing clearances can be deter-
mined by use of Plastigage, or equivalent. The fol-
lowing is the recommended procedures for the use of
Plastigage:
(1) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(2) The total clearance of the main bearings can
only be determined by removing the weight of the
crankshaft. This can be accomplished by either of
two methods:
METHOD - 1 (PREFERRED)ÐShim the bear-
ings adjacent to the bearing to be checked. This will
remove the clearance between upper bearing shell
and the crankshaft. Place a minimum of 0.254 mm
(0.010 inch) shim between the bearing shell and the
adjacent bearing cap. Tighten the bolts to 18 Nzm (13
ft. lbs.) torque.
²ALL ENGINESÐWhen checking No.1 main bear-
ing; shim No.2 main bearing.²ALL ENGINESÐWhen checking No.2 main bear-
ing; shim No.1 and No.3 main bearing.
²ALL ENGINESÐWhen checking No.3 main bear-
ing; shim No.2 and No.4 main bearing.
²ALL ENGINESÐWhen checking No.4 main bear-
ing; shim No.3 and No.5 main bearing.
²2.5L ENGINEÐWhen checking No.5 main bear-
ing; shim No.4 main bearing.
²4.0L ENGINEÐWhen checking No.5 main bear-
ing; shim No.4 and No.6 main bearing.
²4.0L ENGINEÐWhen checking No.6 main bear-
ing; shim No.5 and No.7 main bearing.
²4.0L ENGINEÐWhen checking No.7 main bear-
ing; shim No.6 main bearing.
Remove all shims before assembling engine.
METHOD - 2 (ALTERNATIVE)ÐThe weight of
the crankshaft is supported by a jack under the coun-
terweight adjacent to the bearing being checked.
(3) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing cap shell (Fig. 2). Position the
Plastigage approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) off cen-
ter and away from the oil holes. In addition, suspect
areas can be checked by placing the Plastigage in
that area. Tighten the bearing cap bolts of the bear-
ing being checked to 108 Nzm (80 ft. lbs.) torque.DO
NOT rotate the crankshaft or the Plastigage may
be smeared, giving inaccurate results.
(4) Remove the bearing cap and compare the width
of the flattened Plastigage with the scale provided on
the package (Fig. 3). Plastigage generally comes in 2
scales (one scale is in inches and the other is a met-
ric scale). Locate the band closest to the same width.
This band shows the amount of clearance. Differ-
ences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken
(refer to Engine Specifications).
(5) Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance
ranges. The 0.025-0.076 mm (0.001-0.003 inch) range
is usually the most appropriate for checking engine
bearing clearances.
Fig. 1 Cylinder Bore Crosshatch Pattern
Fig. 2 Placement of Plastigage in Bearing Shell
JENGINES 9 - 3

CONNECTING ROD BEARING CLEARANCE
Engine connecting rod bearing clearances can be
determined by use of Plastigage, or equivalent. The
following is the recommended procedures for the use
of Plastigage:
(1) Remove oil film from surface to be checked.
Plastigage is soluble in oil.
(2) Place a piece of Plastigage across the entire
width of the bearing cap shell (Fig. 2). Position the
Plastigage approximately 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) off cen-
ter and away from the oil holes. In addition, suspect
areas can be checked by placing the Plastigage in the
suspect area.
(3) The crankshaft must be turned until the con-
necting rod to be checked starts moving toward the
top of the engine. Only then should the rod cap with
Plastigage in place be assembled. Tighten the rod
cap nut to 45 Nzm (33 ft. lbs.) torque.DO NOT ro-
tate the crankshaft or the Plastigage may be
smeared, giving inaccurate results.
(4) Remove the bearing cap and compare the width
of the flattened Plastigage with the scale provided on
the package (Fig. 3). Plastigage generally comes in 2
scales (one scale is in inches and the other is a met-
ric scale). Locate the band closest to the same width.
This band shows the amount of clearance. Differ-
ences in readings between the ends indicate the
amount of taper present. Record all readings taken
(refer to Engine Specifications).
(5) Plastigage is available in a variety of clearance
ranges. The 0.025-0.076 mm (0.001-0.003 inch) range
is usually the most appropriate for checking engine
bearing clearances.
REPAIR DAMAGED OR WORN THREADS
Damaged or worn threads can be repaired. Essen-
tially, this repair consists of:
²Drilling out worn or damaged threads.
²Tapping the hole with a special Heli-Coil Tap, or
equivalent.
²Installing an insert into the tapped hole.
This brings the hole back to its original thread size.
CAUTION: Be sure that the tapped holes maintain
the original center line.Heli-Coil tools and inserts are readily available
from automotive parts jobbers.
SERVICE ENGINE ASSEMBLY (SHORT BLOCK)
A service replacement engine assembly (short
block) may be installed whenever the original cylin-
der block is defective or damaged beyond repair. It
consists of the cylinder block, crankshaft, piston and
rod assemblies. If needed, the camshaft must be pro-
cured separately and installed before the engine is
installed in the vehicle.
A short block is identified with the letter ``S'' stamped
on the same machined surface where the build date
code is stamped for complete engine assemblies.
Installation includes the transfer of components
from the defective or damaged original engine. Fol-
low the appropriate procedures for cleaning, inspec-
tion and torque tightening.
HYDROSTATIC LOCK
When an engine is suspected of hydrostatic lock
(regardless of what caused the problem), follow the
steps below.
(1) Perform the Fuel Pressure Release Procedure
(refer to Group 14, Fuel System).
(2) Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
(3) Inspect air cleaner, induction system and in-
take manifold to ensure system is dry and clear of
foreign material.
(4) Place a shop towel around the spark plugs to
catch any fluid that may possibly be under pressure in
the cylinder head. Remove the plugs from the engine.
CAUTION: DO NOT use the starter motor to rotate
the crankshaft. Severe damage could occur.
(5) With all spark plugs removed, rotate the crank-
shaft using a breaker bar and socket.
(6) Identify the fluid in the cylinders (i.e. coolant,
fuel, oil, etc.).
(7) Make sure all fluid has been removed from the
cylinders.
(8) Repair engine or components as necessary to
prevent this problem from occurring again.
(9) Squirt engine oil into the cylinders to lubricate
the walls. This will prevent damage on restart.
(10) Install new spark plugs. Tighten the spark
plugs to 37 Nzm (27 ft. lbs.) torque.
(11) Drain engine oil. Remove and discard the oil
filter.
(12) Install the drain plug. Tighten the plug to 34
Nzm (25 ft. lbs.) torque.
(13) Install a new oil filter.
(14) Fill engine crankcase with the specified
amount and grade of oil (refer to Group 0, Lubrica-
tion and Maintenance).
(15) Connect the negative cable to the battery.
(16) Start the engine and check for any leaks.
Fig. 3 Clearance Measurement
9 - 4 ENGINESJ

CONSTRUCTION
The frame is constructed of high-strength channel
steel siderails and crossmembers. The crossmembers
join the siderails and retain them in alignment in re-
lation to each other. This provides resistance to
frame twists and strains.
FRAME ALIGNMENT
INCORRECT ALIGNMENT
Incorrect frame alignment is usually a result of:
²collision impact, or
²the vehicle being operated with excessive loads, or
²loads not positioned in a properly distributed man-
ner on the vehicle.
A mis-aligned frame will affect front axle and/or
rear axle alignment. It can cause excessive wear and
mechanical failures in the powertrain. Window glass
cracks and door opening/closing problems. Vehicle
performance can also be impaired.
RE-ALIGNMENT
With collision damage, it is important that the ex-
istence of any frame alignment damage be deter-
mined. If necessary, the frame should be correctly re-
aligned. Refer to the reference dimensions listed on
frame alignment dimension chart (Fig. 4).
FRAME INSPECTION/MEASUREMENTS
INSPECTION
Before proceeding with measurements, inspect all
components for visible damage and other metal dam-
age. Also, inspect all connections for loose and miss-
ing hardware.
All damaged areas must be repaired and/or the
components replaced, as necessary.
MEASUREMENTS
Measure the frame for mis-alignment with the
body attached to the frame. Figure 4 provides the
alignment reference dimensions. The following infor-
mation applies to all measurements.
(1) Place the vehicle on a level surface.
(2) If the vehicle is loaded, ensure that the vehicle
weight plus the payload does not exceed the gross ve-
hicle weight rating. Also, ensure that the load is dis-
tributed in the vehicle as evenly as possible.
(3) Measure the tire inflation pressures and adjust
the pressure, if necessary.
HORIZONTAL OR DIAGONAL FRAME MEASUREMENTS
Determine the frame horizontal non-square devia-
tion(s) according to the following procedure.
(1) Select several reference points along one frame
siderail, preferably at the crossmember junctions.(2) Transfer these reference points to the surface/
floor with a plumb bob. Paper sheets can be attached
to the surface below the reference points for better
measurement accuracy.
(3) Locate the reference points on the other frame
siderail and transfer them to the surface/floor with
the same procedure as above.
(4) Move the vehicle away and measure between
all the reference points diagonally from and parallel
to the siderails (Fig. 5). The measurements should
not differ by more than 6 mm (1/4 in).
(5) Measure the distance between the two front
reference points and the distance between the two
rear reference points. Divide each distance in half
and indicate the two half-way points on the surface/
floor. Designate the front point as ``1'' and the rear
point as ``2'' (Fig. 5).
(6) Place a chalk-line between points 1 and 2 and
``snap'' the string.
(7) Determine how close the center line is to the
diagonal intersection points A, B, C, D, E, and F in
Figure 5.
(8) The reference marks on the surface/floor will
provide an illustrated indication of the degree of
frame misalignment.
(9) A reference point transferred from one frame
siderail may be 3 mm (1/8 in) ahead or behind the
reference point from the opposite siderail.
(10) Frame bow to the side should not exceed 3
mm per 2,540 mm (1/8 inch per 100 inches) in
length.
(11) The overall width of the frame should not
vary more than 3 mm (1/8 in) from reference point-
to-reference point.
(12) Repeat steps (1) through (11) after straighten-
ing the frame to evaluate the effectiveness.
TWIST AND PARALLEL FRAME MEASUREMENTS
Determine the amount of frame twist and siderail
deviation according to the following procedure.
(1) Mark the vertical measurement reference
points under the frame siderails at 305-mm (12-in)
intervals starting at the rear frame crossmember.
(2) Measure the vertical distance up from a level
surface to each reference point located under the left
and right frame siderails.
(3) The distance to a reference point under one
frame siderail should be 3 mm (1/8 in) greater or less
than the point under the opposite siderail.
(4) Plot the measured vertical distances to scale on
a sheet of graph paper. Plot the distances so that the
frame siderails are located adjacent to each other.
Join the vertical distance points.
13 - 10 FRAME AND BUMPERSJ