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Home >> Mercury >> 2009 >> Mariner Base, 2.5 7, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 101 (Rear Suspension System) >> Removal And Installation >> Lateral Arm and Watts Link Pivot Assembly >> Removal

Lateral Arm and Watts Link Pivot Assembly: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2009 Ford Crown Victoria. 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 fasteners must be installed with the same part number or an equivalent part if installation 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. Orientation of the fasteners is also important on all rear suspension arms. Make sure the fasteners are installed in the same direction as they were in when removed.
  1. For reference during the installation procedure, measure the distance from the lip of the fender to the center of the wheel hub with the vehicle in a static level ground position.
    2. Fig 1: Measuring Distance From Lip Of Fender To Center Of Wheel Hub
    GF0013848Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    WARNING: Before servicing a vehicle equipped with a fire suppression system, depower the system by following the procedure in FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM article. Failure to follow the instructions may result in serious personal injury.
  2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING article.
  3. Disconnect the height sensor from the mounting bracket.
    4. Fig 2: Height Sensor & Mounting Bracket
    GF0013852Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. Remove and discard the LH lateral arm-to-frame nut and bolt.
  5. Detach the parking brake cable from the retainer bracket.
    6. Fig 3: Parking Brake Cable & Retainer Bracket
    GF0013853Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. Remove and discard the lateral arm-to-Watts link pivot nuts.
    7. NOTE: If the Watts link pivot stud on the axle assembly loosens while removing the pivot nut, continue to loosen the pivot stud until you can insert an open end wrench to hold the pivot stud. While holding the pivot stud, remove the pivot nut.
  7. Remove and discard the Watts link pivot nut.
  8. Move the Watts link upwards and detach the lateral arms.
    • Remove the Watts link and LH lateral arm.
    9. Fig 4: Watts Link & LH Lateral Arm
    GF0013854Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    CAUTION: Do not use excessive force when removing the RH lateral arm-to-frame bolt or damage to the air spring may occur.
  9. Remove the RH lateral arm-to-frame nut and bolt and remove the arm.
    • Discard the nut and bolt.
  10. Remove and discard the Watts link pivot stud.
  11. If necessary, remove the nuts and the height sensor bracket.
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