Removal And Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number or an equivalent part must be installed, if installation is necessary. Do not use a 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 article.
Using a suitable jack, support the rear axle.
Remove and discard the lower shock absorber bolt and nut.
- To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the 4 rear U-bolt nuts.
- Remove the U-bolts and the spring plate.
- To install, tighten to 103 Nm (76 lb-ft).
If equipped carefully lower the rear axle and remove the rear spring spacer.
Remove and discard the spring-to-frame bracket bolt and flag nut.
- To install, tighten to 200 Nm (148 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the spring shackle-to-spring bolt and nut and remove the spring.
- To install, tighten to 103 Nm (76 lb-ft).
If necessary, remove the spring shackle.
- Remove and discard the shackle-to-frame bracket bolt and flag nut.
- Remove the shackle.
- To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
To install, reverse the removal procedure.