Leaf Spring Shackle

Replace the rear leaf spring shackle on a 2017 Maserati Levante, restoring proper rear suspension geometry and eliminating worn bushing noise or alignment issues.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Leaf spring shackle assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Shackle mounting bolts × 4 — Use OEM specification
• Shackle bushings (if not included with shackle) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground
4. Lift rear of vehicle using manufacturer-specified jack points
5. Support vehicle on jack stands at frame rails behind rear axle
6. Remove rear wheels completely
7. Spray all shackle mounting bolts with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-30 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Support rear suspension assembly
   Position a floor jack under the rear suspension assembly near the shackle mounting point. Raise jack until it just contacts the suspension and takes minimal load. This prevents the suspension from dropping when shackle bolts are removed and maintains proper working geometry.
2. 2

   Remove lower shackle bolt
   Locate the lower shackle bolt connecting the shackle to the leaf spring eye. Using a 19mm socket on the nut side and 19mm wrench on the bolt head, remove the lower mounting bolt completely. The bolt may be tight due to preload; use a breaker bar if necessary. Support the shackle by hand as the bolt is removed.
3. 3

   Remove upper shackle bolt
   Locate the upper shackle bolt connecting the shackle to the frame bracket. Using appropriate size socket (typically 18mm or 19mm), remove the upper mounting bolt. If the shackle hangs on the bushing, use a pry bar to gently separate it from the mounting bracket. The shackle assembly can now be removed completely.
4. 4

   Inspect mounting points
   With the shackle removed, thoroughly inspect the frame bracket and leaf spring eye for cracks, elongated bolt holes, or damage. Use a wire brush to clean the mounting surfaces and bolt holes of rust and debris. Check that bolt holes are not wallowed out or damaged. Inspect the removed shackle bushings for wear patterns.
5. 5

   Prepare new shackle assembly
   Unpack the new shackle assembly and verify it matches the old unit in dimensions and bushing type. If bushings are separate, press or drive them into the shackle eyes ensuring they are fully seated and oriented correctly. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize to the bolt sleeves inside the bushings.
6. 6

   Install upper shackle bolt
   Position the new shackle assembly into the upper frame bracket. Insert the upper mounting bolt through the frame bracket and shackle eye. Start the nut onto the bolt by hand but do not tighten yet. Ensure the shackle can pivot freely and is not binding.
7. 7

   Install lower shackle bolt
   Align the lower shackle eye with the leaf spring eye. You may need to use the floor jack to adjust rear suspension height for proper alignment. Insert the lower mounting bolt through both eyes and start the nut by hand. Verify the bolt passes through cleanly without cross-threading.
8. 8

   Torque shackle mounting bolts
   With the vehicle weight supported on jack stands (suspension in normal ride position), torque both upper and lower shackle bolts. While specific torque values are not provided in the database for shackle bolts, use manufacturer specifications from service manual. Typical values range from 75-120 Nm. Torque with suspension at ride height to prevent bushing bind. Hold bolt head with wrench while torquing nut.
9. 9

   Verify shackle operation
   Remove the floor jack from under the suspension and allow it to hang freely. Manually move the suspension through its travel range and verify the shackle pivots smoothly without binding or noise. Check that all bolts are tight and there is no play in the assembly.
10. 10

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Reinstall the rear wheel, threading lug nuts by hand first. Raise vehicle slightly to remove jack stands. Lower vehicle until wheel contacts ground but vehicle weight is still on jack. Torque wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Fully lower vehicle and remove jack.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts142 Nm (105 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Repeat procedure for opposite side shackle if both sides require replacement
2. Always replace suspension components in pairs to maintain balanced handling characteristics
3. Re-torque all fasteners after 50-100 miles of driving to ensure proper seating

Verification

• Test drive vehicle at low speed and verify no clunking or rattling from rear suspension
• Perform figure-eight turns in both directions and listen for abnormal noises
• Visually inspect shackle bolts after test drive to ensure they remain tight
• Have wheel alignment checked, as suspension geometry changes may affect toe settings
• Check for even tire wear patterns after 500 miles to confirm proper alignment

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