Roof Opening Panel Idler Track and Mechanism: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 Lincoln MKX and 2010 Ford Edge. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: If required, there is a special service replacement fastener available if a screw hole becomes stripped during installation. For additional information, refer to ROOF OPENING PANEL - EXPLODED VIEW .

Remove the roof opening panel sliding glass. For additional information, refer to ROOF OPENING PANEL GLASS - FRONT SLIDING .
Remove the roof opening panel side trim. For additional information, refer to ROOF OPENING PANEL TRIM - SIDE .
If installing a new roof opening panel idler track, carefully slide the idler link forward and out of the track.

Fig 1: Sliding Idler Link Forward And Out Of Track
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Carefully mark the location of the idler track in 3 places before removing any fasteners. The new idler track must be installed in exactly the same position.

NOTE: LH shown in illustration, RH similar.

Fig 2: Locating Rear Idler Track-To-Housing Screws

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the 6 rear idler track-to-housing screws.

NOTE: The center rear idler track-to-housing screws will be captured inside the track rail. In some cases, it may be necessary to lift rails to completely remove screws from roof threads to allow idler track removal.

Fig 3: Locating Center Rear Idler Track-To-Housing Screws

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Completely loosen the 2 center rear idler track-to-housing screws.
Slide track rearward to disengage front clip and remove assembly.
Remove the 2 center rear idler track-to-housing screws from the idler track.