Removal and 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.

CAUTION: Use the hex holding feature to prevent the ball studs (upper ball joint, lower ball joint, tie-rod end and stabilizer bar links) from turning while removing and installing the nuts.

CAUTION: Do not hammer the ball studs to separate them from the wheel knuckle or stabilizer bar. Doing so can cause damage. Lightly tap the wheel knuckle or stabilizer bar to loosen the joints.

NOTE: The lower ball joint and the outer tie-rod end ball studs do not require special tools to be removed from the wheel knuckle.

Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to WHEELS & TIRES .
Remove and discard the lower ball joint-to-wheel knuckle nut.
- To install, tighten to 150 Nm (111 lb-ft).
Separate the lower ball joint from the wheel knuckle.
Remove and discard the shock absorber lower nut and bolt.
- To install, tighten to 475 Nm (351 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the stabilizer bar lower nut.
- To install, tighten to 90 Nm (66 lb-ft).
Fig 1: Removing And Discarding Stabilizer Bar Lower Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 2 lower arm-to-frame nuts and bolts.
- To install, tighten to 300 Nm (222 lb-ft).
Remove the lower arm from the vehicle.

NOTE: Do not tighten the nuts until the installation procedure is complete and the weight of the vehicle is resting on the wheel and tire assemblies.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
1. Always install new:
  - Lower ball joint-to-wheel knuckle nuts.
  - Shock absorber lower nuts and bolts.
  - Stabilizer bar lower nuts.
  - Lower arm-to-frame nuts and bolts.
2. Check the wheel alignment. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION .