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Front Suspension: Overhaul Ford Thunderbird XI

Suspension Front 3 illustrations ~243 words

Disassembly

WARNINGAll vehicles are equipped with gas pressurized shock absorbers which will extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorbers during removal or component servicing. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury.
WARNINGThe shock absorber and spring assembly is under extreme load. Do not attempt to disassemble the shock absorber and spring assembly without using a spring compressor. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury.
CAUTIONSuspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation is necessary. Do not use a new 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.

Scheme 24

Scheme 24
Scheme 24

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Scheme 26
  1. Remove the shock absorber and spring assembly. For additional information, refer to «SHOCK ABSORBER AND SPRING ASSEMBLY»(ref-169465-S12925530772004120900000) .
  2. Mount and mark the shock absorber and spring assembly. Position the shock absorber and spring assembly in a suitable holding device. Mark the upper mount, spring and shock absorber for assembly reference.
  3. Compress the spring. Install an appropriate spring compressor. Compress the spring.
  4. While holding the shock absorber rod, remove and discard the nut.
  5. Remove the upper mount and dust boot as an assembly.
  6. Carefully remove the spring and spring compressor.

Assembly

Note. If a new shock absorber, spring or upper mount is installed, the new part should be marked in the same place as the old part to make sure the assembly is correctly aligned.

  1. Inspect the lower and upper spring seats for damage.
  2. Inspect the spring insulator for wear or damage. Install a new upper mount if necessary.
  3. Inspect the spring for nicked or scratched paint. If the paint is nicked or scratched, install a new spring.
  4. If removed, place the shock absorber into the vise.
  5. Position the shock and spring compressor onto the strut.
  6. Position the upper mount and dust boot onto the spring. Make sure the marks made during disassembly, Step 2, are lined up.
  7. Install a new nut.
  8. Remove the spring compressor.
  9. Install the shock absorber and spring assembly. For additional information, refer to «SHOCK ABSORBER AND SPRING ASSEMBLY»(ref-169465-S12925530772004120900000) .

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