Lateral Arm

This procedure covers removal and installation of the rear lateral arm (toe link) on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including suspension disassembly, lateral arm replacement, and alignment requirements.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Lateral arm (toe link) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lateral arm mounting bolts (if corroded) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Loosen wheel lug nuts on the wheel corresponding to the lateral arm being replaced while vehicle is on ground
3. Raise vehicle at appropriate jacking point and support securely on jack stands under chassis rails
4. Remove wheel completely

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark existing alignment position
   Before removing any fasteners, use a marking pen or paint to mark the position of the lateral arm adjusting cam and eccentric bolt relative to the mounting bracket. This provides a baseline reference for initial toe setting during reassembly, though professional alignment will still be required.
2. 2

   Access lateral arm mounting points
   Locate the lateral arm (toe link) which connects the rear knuckle to the rear suspension crossmember/subframe. The inboard end attaches to the crossmember with an eccentric cam bolt for toe adjustment. The outboard end attaches to the rear knuckle. Spray penetrating oil on both mounting bolts if corrosion is present and allow to soak.
3. 3

   Remove outboard lateral arm bolt
   Using the correct socket (verify size against 2005 Viper service data) and breaker bar, remove the bolt securing the lateral arm to the rear knuckle. The bolt passes through the knuckle and lateral arm bushing. Note the orientation of any washers or spacers. The bolt may require significant force to break free due to thread-locking compound.
4. 4

   Remove inboard eccentric cam bolt
   Using a 21mm socket, remove the eccentric cam bolt securing the lateral arm to the rear crossmember/subframe mounting bracket. Note the orientation of the eccentric cam washer - the eccentric cam adjusts toe angle and must be reinstalled in approximately the same position. Remove the bolt completely and lower the lateral arm from the vehicle.
5. 5

   Inspect mounting points
   Inspect the knuckle mounting bore and crossmember bracket for wear, elongation, or damage. Check both bushings in the old lateral arm for separation, cracking, or excessive deflection. Wire brush any corrosion from bolt threads and mounting surfaces. Verify the eccentric cam washer is in good condition with no cracks or deformation.
6. 6

   Install new lateral arm to crossmember
   Position the new lateral arm to the front crossmember mounting bracket. Install the eccentric cam bolt with the cam positioned to match your alignment marks from Step 1. Thread the bolt by hand initially but do not tighten. The lateral arm should pivot freely on the bolt.
7. 7

   Install lateral arm to knuckle
   Pivot the lateral arm into position and align with the mounting bore in the rear knuckle. A pry bar may be needed to align the holes. Install the outboard bolt with any washers or spacers in their original orientation. Thread the bolt by hand initially but do not tighten.
8. 8

   Torque lateral arm fasteners
   Snug both lateral arm mounting bolts now, then final-torque them at normal ride height (suspension loaded) to the manufacturer-specified value (verify torque against 2005 Viper service data before applying). These are critical fasteners that locate the rear axle. Torque the mounting bolts in the manufacturer-specified sequence (verify against 2005 Viper service data). Use a torque wrench with appropriate socket.
   Torque spec

   Control Arm Bolts165 Nm (122 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reinstall wheel
   Install the wheel onto the hub and thread all lug nuts by hand. Tighten lug nuts in a star pattern to draw the wheel evenly onto the hub, but do not torque fully yet.
10. 10

    Lower vehicle and final torque
    Lower the vehicle from jack stands until full weight is on the wheels. With vehicle at normal ride height on the ground, torque the wheel lug nuts to the manufacturer-specified value (verify against 2005 Viper service data) in a star pattern. With the vehicle at normal ride height, final-torque the lateral arm mounting bolts to the manufacturer-specified value (verify against 2005 Viper service data) so the bushings are set in their neutral position.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts142.4 Nm (105 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is covered in the main procedure steps
2. Ensure all fasteners are torqued to specification using a calibrated torque wrench
3. The eccentric cam bolt allows approximately 1 degree of toe adjustment range

Verification

• Verify both lateral arm mounting bolts are torqued to 122 lb-ft and show no movement
• Check that the lateral arm bushings seat fully in their mounting bores with no gaps
• Test drive at low speed in a safe area - vehicle will pull significantly if toe is out of specification
• Schedule four-wheel alignment immediately - toe angle is critical for tire wear and handling stability

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