Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the rear stabilizer bar on vehicles equipped with rear stabilizer bars.
1. Remove the rear stabilizer bar link nuts and bolt.
2. Remove the rear stabilizer bar link.
3. Remove the rear stabilizer bar mounting bracket bolts and remove the brackets.
4. Remove the rear stabilizer bar.
  
  Fig 1: Removing Rear Stabilizer Bar
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the drive pinion. For additional information, refer to DRIVE PINION .
Disconnect the rear brake anti-lock sensor electrical connector and the wiring harness clips.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Rear Brake Anti-Lock Sensor Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the vent hose from the axle.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Vent Hose From Axle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Separate the brake lines from the retaining clips on the axle.

Fig 4: Separating Brake Lines From Retaining Clips
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not disconnect the brake lines from the brake hose junction block.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Brake Hose Junction Block

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Disconnect the brake hose junction block from the rear axle housing.
Disconnect the rear brake drum backing plates and wire them out of the way.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Rear Brake Drum Backing Plates
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position a suitable jack under the differential housing and strap it securely in place.

Fig 7: Positioning Jack Under Differential Housing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the two lower shock absorber nuts and bolts.

Fig 8: Removing Shock Absorber Nuts And Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the rear axle U-bolt assembly.
1. Remove the four rear spring plate nuts.
2. Remove the two rear spring plate U-bolts.
3. Remove the rear spring plate.
4. Repeat the procedure for the other side.
  
  Fig 9: Removing Rear Axle U-Bolt Assembly
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Lower the rear axle from the vehicle.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.