Shock Absorber and Spring Assembly: Installation

NOTE: Do not tighten the lower shock nut until the installation procedure is complete and the weight of the vehicle is resting on the wheel and tire assemblies or incorrect clamp load and bushing damage may occur.

Position the shock absorber and spring and install the dust boot, insulator and the upper mount.

Fig 1: Locating Dust Boot, Insulator And Upper Mount
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Align the index marks made during disassembly.

Using a suitable spring compressor, compress the spring until the tension is released from the shock absorber.

Fig 2: Compressing Shock Absorber Spring
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the shock rod from turning while installing the nut.

Using the hex-holding feature to hold the shock rod, install the shock absorber and the shock rod nut.
- Tighten the new nut to 56 Nm (41 lb-ft).
Install the shock absorber and spring assembly and connect the upper arm ball joint to the wheel knuckle.
- Tighten the new nut to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
Fig 3: Installing Shock Absorber And Spring Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Do not tighten the nut at this time.

Loosely install the new shock absorber lower nut and bolt.
Connect the brake flexible hose bracket to the wheel knuckle and install the bolt.
- Tighten the bolt to 30 Nm (22 lb-ft).
Attach the flexible hose retainer to the speed sensor harness.
Install the tie-rod end nut.
- Tighten to 150 Nm (111 lb-ft).
Install the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to WHEELS & TIRES .
Install the new shock absorber upper mount nuts.
- Tighten to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft).
With the weight of the vehicle on the wheel and tire, tighten the shock absorber lower nut to 550 Nm (406 lb-ft).