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Home >> Mercury >> 2009 >> Mariner Base, 2.5 7, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 14 (Suspension System - General Information) >> General Procedures >> Caster Adjustment - Front

Caster Adjustment - Front

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    NOTE: If caster adjustment is necessary to resolve a vehicle alignment issue, then slotting the subframe and installing cam bolts is an acceptable method. This procedure should not be routinely performed with all alignments and only after all other possible sources have been inspected and corrected as necessary.
  1. Remove the front lower control arm. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION article.
  2. NOTE: Do not elongate the hole any more than indicated by the etchings on the subframe or damage to the subframe may occur.
  3. Using a suitable grinding tool, elongate the lower control arm rear outboard mounting hole as indicated by the etchings in the subframe.
    • Remove any burrs.
    • Clean and paint any exposed metal.
  4. Fig 1: Locating Lower Control Arm Rear Outboard Mounting Hole
    GF0015298Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Install the front lower control arm using a cam bolt and a new nut in the rear inboard mounting hole. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION article.
    • Do not tighten the cam bolt until the alignment has been corrected.
  6. Fig 2: Locating Rear Inboard Mounting Hole
    GF0015299Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  7. Using alignment equipment and the manufacturer's instructions, measure the caster.
  8. Using the cam bolt, adjust the front caster until it is within specifications.
    • Tighten the lower control arm rear inboard cam nut to 185 Nm (136 lb-ft).
  9. Recheck the caster settings and adjust as necessary.