Removal And Installation: Spring: Removal

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.

WARNING: Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorber or strut tube. The shock absorber and strut tube are gas pressurized and could explode if heated. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Keep all body parts clear of shock absorbers or strut rods. Shock absorbers or struts can extend unassisted. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. New parts must be installed with the same part number or an equivalent part if replacement 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.

Index-mark the lower arm to the frame with the vehicle in a static ground position (curb height).

Fig 1: Locating Index-Marks On Lower Arm
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to WHEELS AND TIRES article.

CAUTION: Do not allow the shaft to turn while removing the nut. Hold the flats on the shock rod using a suitable wrench or damage to the shock can result.

Remove and discard the shock absorber rod nut and washer assembly.
Remove and discard the 2 shock absorber lower nuts, and remove the shock absorber.
Remove the stabilizer bar link nut and grommet, then remove the link assembly.
Using the special tool, compress the coil spring.

Fig 2: Compressing Coil Spring Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the lower ball joint nut.
Using a suitable jack, support the lower arm.

Fig 3: Locating Suitable Jack To Support Front Suspension Lower Arm
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not damage the ball joint boot when installing the special tool.

Fig 4: Removing Lower Ball Joint From Wheel Spindle Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, separate the lower ball joint from the wheel spindle.
Carefully remove the jack from under the lower arm.
Loosen the lower arm bolts and allow the lower arm to swing down.

Fig 5: Locating Lower Arm Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the wheel spindle aside and remove the coil spring.