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Home >> Ford >> 2000 >> Contour SE, 2.0 3, Standard >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 976 (Front Suspension - Four Wheel Drive (4WD) -- F150) >> Removal And Installation >> Ball Joint - Lower >> Installation

Ball Joint - Lower: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Using a clean shop towel and the specified surface cleaner, clean the lower arm ball joint bore and inspect for cracks or damage before installing a new ball joint. If there is evidence of cracks or damage, a new lower arm must be installed.
    Fig 1: Locating Lower Arm Ball Joint Bore
    G04669690Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. CAUTION: Use care to prevent adhesive from contacting the ball joint boot or damage to the boot may occur, causing premature ball joint failure.
    NOTE: To allow the adhesive to fully cure, the vehicle must not be driven on the road for at least one hour after the installation of a new ball joint.
    Fig 2: Locating Coat Of Adhesive On Lower Arm Ball Joint
    G04669691Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Apply an even coat of adhesive (supplied with kit) to the lower arm ball joint bore and the ball joint.
  4. CAUTION: Do not damage the lower ball joint boot when installing the special tool or premature failure of the ball joint may occur.
    NOTE: Make sure the ball joint snap ring is fully seated.
  5. Using the special tools, install the lower ball joint.
    • Install the ball joint snap ring.
      Fig 3: Identifying Special Tools
      G04669692Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. Using a clean shop towel and the specified surface cleaner, wipe any excess adhesive from the ball joint and lower arm.
  7. Install the wheel knuckle. For additional information, refer to Wheel Knuckle .