Bridge assembly — removal and installation (Defender 2007+)

Removal

WARNING: Removal and installation of the bridge requires two additional people to support the bridge while lowering or moving it.

1. Drain the brake fluid from the brake system.



2. Place supports under the rear of the chassis.

3. Remove the wheels.

4. Place a hydraulic jack under the bridge.

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5. Disconnect the shock absorbers.

6. Release the brake hose from the clamp on the right chassis spar and disconnect the ventilation hose, disconnect the "banjo" type nipple connection (with hollow screw) on the drive axle housing.

7. Disconnect the lower arms from the axle.

8. Mark the differential and propeller shaft flanges to facilitate assembly.

9. Unscrew the 4 nuts, remove the corresponding bolts, lower the cardan shaft and tie it to the side.

10. Disconnect the ball joint of the steering bracket on the bridge bracket.

11. Loosen the bolts and remove the spring mounting strips.

12. Lower the bridge and remove the springs.

13. If applicable, remove the stabilizer bar links from the axle.

For more information, please refer to the chapter: Stabilizer Bar (204-02, Removal and installation).



14. Remove the bridge assembly.

Installation

1. Install the axle and connect the lower arms. Tighten the fasteners to 176 Nm.

2. If applicable, connect the stabilizer links to the axle.

For more information, please refer to the chapter: Stabilizer Bar (204-02, Removal and installation).

3. Raise the bridge and install the springs.

4. Install the spring mounting strips and secure them with bolts.

5. Connect the ball joint of the steering bracket to the bridge bracket. Tighten the fastening element to 176 Nm.

6. Align the propeller shaft with the differential flange and tighten the fastening elements to 47 Nm.

7. Connect the brake hose and the axle ventilation hose.

8. Install the shock absorbers.

9. Fit the wheels and tighten them to the specified torque: Alloy wheels - 130 Nm. Steel wheels - 100 Nm. Heavy-duty wheels - 170 Nm.

10. Remove the support from under the rear of the chassis.

11. Remove air from the brake system.

For more information, see the chapter: Brake System Bleeding (206-00, General Procedures).