Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Montego, 2006 Ford Freestyle, and 2006 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect the performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. Do not use a new part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to REMOVAL .

NOTE: Use the holding feature to prevent the stud from turning while removing the nut.

Fig 1: Removing Lower Arm Ball Joint Nut

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a crow's foot wrench, remove and discard the lower arm ball joint nut.
- To install, tighten to 115 N.m (85 lb-ft).
Using a pry bar, push the lower arm downward until the ball joint is clear of the lower arm.
- Install the special tool over the ball stud before releasing the lower arm and knuckle into the rest position.
  - Leave the special tool in place during service, remove prior to reassembly.
Fig 2: Pushing Lower Arm Down Using Pry Bar
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 3: Identifying Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the lower arm-to-subframe bolt.
- To install, tighten to 150 N.m (111 lb-ft).
Fig 4: Removing Lower Arm-To-Subframe Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the lower arm bushing-to-subframe nuts and bolts.
- To install, tighten to 99 N.m (73 lb-ft).
- Install the new lower arm bushing-to-subframe bolts from the bottom of the lower arm bushing with the nuts on top.
Fig 5: Removing Lower Arm Bushing-To-Subframe Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Use new lower arm fasteners.