Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford Pickup, 2005 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2005 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: All vehicles are equipped with gas-pressurized shock absorbers which will extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorbers during removal or component servicing.

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. They must be replaced with the same part number or an equivalent part if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to ensure proper retention of these parts.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to WHEELS AND TIRES .
Using a suitable jack, support the front axle assembly.
Index-mark the spring and the spring upper seat.

Fig 1: Index-Marking Spring And Spring Upper Seat
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the front shock absorber lower mounting bolt and nut.

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Front Shock Absorber Lower Mounting Bolt And Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the stabilizer link-to-axle nut.

Fig 3: Removing/Installing Stabilizer Link-To-Axle Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Lower the axle and remove the spring.
Remove the spring insulator and retain for reinstallation.

Fig 4: Removing Spring Insulator
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.