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 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.

Remove the brake disc shield. For additional information, refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE article.
Remove and discard the wheel speed sensor harness bolt.
- To install, tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the wheel speed sensor bolt and disconnect the wheel speed sensor from the wheel spindle.
- To install, tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the outer tie-rod end nut.
- To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).

CAUTION: Do not use a hammer to separate the tie-rod end from the wheel spindle or damage to the wheel spindle will result.

CAUTION: Do not damage the tie-rod end boot when installing the special tool.

Fig 1: Removing Tie-Rod End From Wheel Spindle Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, separate the outer tie-rod end from the wheel spindle.
Use a suitable jack to support the front suspension lower arm.

Fig 2: Locating Suitable Jack To Support Front Suspension Lower Arm
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the upper ball joint nut and pinch bolt.
- Disconnect the upper ball joint from the wheel spindle.
- To install, tighten to 63 Nm (46 lb-ft).
Remove and discard the lower ball joint cotter pin and nut.
- To install, tighten to 133 Nm (98 lb-ft).

CAUTION: Do not use a hammer to separate the ball joint from the wheel spindle or damage to the wheel spindle will result.

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

Fig 3: 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 and remove the front wheel spindle.

CAUTION: Always install the cotter pins into the nuts from the outboard to inboard, with the fingers bent together at a right angle. Failure to do so will result in damage to the wheel and tire assembly.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.