Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2005 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to WHEELS AND TIRES .
Remove and discard the upper ball joint-to-wheel knuckle nut.
- To install, tighten to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft).
  
  Fig 1: Discarding Upper Ball Joint-To-Wheel Knuckle Nut
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not use a hammer to separate the ball joint from the wheel knuckle or damage to the wheel knuckle can result.

CAUTION: Do not damage the ball joint boot while installing the special tool.

Fig 2: Separating Upper Ball Joint From Wheel Knuckle

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, separate the upper ball joint from the wheel knuckle.
Remove the 2 upper arm-to-frame nuts.
- To install, tighten to 150 Nm (111 lb-ft).
Remove the 2 set shims.
Remove the upper arm.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
1. Check and, if necessary, align the front end.
2. Always install a new upper ball joint-to-wheel knuckle nut.