Cause of Rear End Raising up

[BigJim1]

I have a 2003 Pathfinder LE, I replaced all the rear stabilizer rods, shocks and all. When I put the truck in reverse, the rear end of the truck raises up. When I put it in drive the rear goes back down. Any one else have this situation?

[mdmellott]

The rear upper and/or lower control arm bushings are shot. It is best to replace all four control arms at the same time.

[BigJim1]

Man I hope not, I just replaced all of them. I talked with a Nissan mechanic tonight and he asked me if I had change them with the wheels on the ground or jacked up. He said the wheels have got to be on the ground before tightening them. Looks like I need to loosen them and retighten them. I will let you know how it goes. Thanks for replying and helping me, I really do appreciate it.

[mdmellott]

Yep! That'll do it. The mechanic is spot on. To simulate normal ride height, after installation but before tightening the bolts, the wheels do need to be on the ground or the axle can be raised with a floor jack to get the same effect. Wheels on the ground is a sure bet to get it right but may be a bit awkward getting to some of the bolts with a torque wrench. If it is too awkward, you can always just make the bolts good and tight with a normal wrench so nothing moves, then you can jack it up as before and torque them to the proper spec.

[BigJim1]

Thanks mdmellott, I appreciate it, I was thinking if I put the rear axles on jack stands it would be the same thing as the wheels being on the ground.