Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2003 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. Install new parts with the same part number or an equivalent part if installation of a new part is necessary. Do not use a replacement 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.

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 .
Position jack stands under the axle housing.

Fig 1: Positioning Jack Stands Under Axle Housing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index-mark the spring and the spring upper seat.

Fig 2: Identifying Index-Mark Spring And Spring Upper Seat
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the front shock absorber lower mounting bolt and nut.

Fig 3: Removing/Installing Front Shock Absorber Lower Mounting Bolt And Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the stabilizer link-to-axle nut.

Fig 4: 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.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.