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.

NOTE: Replace the drag link if the ball stud is loose in the socket or the drag link is bent. Replace the steering linkage stud dust seal if any nicks, cuts, or tears are present. Do not attempt to straighten steering linkage components.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Loosen the 2 adjusting sleeve nuts.

Fig 1: Loosening Adjusting Sleeve Nuts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Loosen the adjusting sleeve bracket nut.

Fig 2: Loosening Adjusting Sleeve Bracket Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the damper nut and separate the damper from the drag link.

Fig 3: Separating Damper From Drag Link
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the cotter pin and the drag link-to-sector shaft arm nut.
- Discard the cotter pin.
  
  Fig 4: Removing Cotter Pin And Drag Link-To-Sector Shaft Arm Nut
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Count the number of turns required to remove the drag link for reference during assembly.

Fig 5: Separating Drag Link From Sector Shaft Arm

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, separate the drag link from the sector shaft arm and remove the drag link.

NOTE: When repairing the linkage clean the damper shaft of all corrosion and dirt. Buff the damper shaft smooth. Repairing the linkage changes the damper travel slightly. A dirty/corroded shaft can damage the damper seal and create a leak.

NOTE: If the cotter pin does not line up with the slot in the nut, increase the torque until the next slot in the nut aligns with the hole in the stud. Never loosen the nut to align the slot.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Check the front wheel toe setting. For additional information, refer to SUSPENSION SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION .