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 .
Position jack stands under the front axle housing.
Remove the upper shock absorber retaining nut.

Fig 1: Removing/Installing Upper Shock Absorber Retaining Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the lower shock absorber retaining bolt and nut. Remove the shock absorber.

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Lower Shock Absorber Retaining Bolt And Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using new fasteners, reverse the removal procedure.