Front Strut and Spring Assembly: Removal

For information on Ford Color Coded Illustrations refer to OEM Color Coding

1. Remove the cowl panel grille. Refer to: Cowl Panel Grille .
2. Detach the brake tube retainer, remove the retainers and the cowl panel grille.

   Torque: 1.: 27 lb.in (3 Nm) 2.: 44 lb.in (5 Nm)

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3. Remove the wheel and tire. Refer to: Wheel and Tire .
4. Remove and discard the strut and spring assembly upper mount nuts.

   Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

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5. NOTE: Do not use power tools to remove or install the stabilizer bar link nuts or damage to the stabilizer bar link ball joints or boots may occur.
   NOTE: Do not hold the stabilizer bar link boot with any tool or damage to the boot may occur.
   NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the ball stud from turning while removing or installing the stabilizer bar link nut.
   NOTE: The stabilizer bar links are designed with low friction ball joints that have a low breakaway torque.
   1. Remove and discard the stabilizer bar link upper nut and detach the link from the strut.

      Torque: 39 lb.ft (53 Nm)

   2. Detach the retainer and disconnect the wheel speed sensor harness from the strut and spring assembly bracket.

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6. Remove the bolt and position aside the brake hose.

   Torque: 18 lb.ft (25 Nm)

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7. NOTE: Make sure that new bolts are installed.
   1. Remove and discard the 2 front strut and spring assembly-to-wheel knuckle bolts and nuts.

      Torque: Stage 1: 59 lb.ft (80 Nm) Stage 2: 90 deg.

   2. Remove the front strut and spring assembly.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY