Ford Escape: Rear Suspension / Removal and Installation - Front Lower Arm

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

Removal

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect the performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the wheel and tire.
   Refer to: Wheel and Tire (204-04A Wheels and Tires, Removal and Installation).
   

1. NOTICE: Do not attempt to jacking on the front control arm or rear control arm on any vehicle. Damage to control arms may occur.

   NOTICE: Make sure that the insulator pads are correctly positioned to prevent direct contact with other components.

   Raise the suspension to curb height.
   Use the General Equipment: Vehicle/Axle Stands

1. NOTICE: Tighten the suspension fasteners with the weight of the vehicle on the wheels and tires or use a suitable jack to raise the suspension to curb height or damage to the bushings may occur.

   NOTE: Only tighten the nuts and bolts when the suspension is in the normal drive position.

   1. Remove and discard the front lower arm-to-wheel knuckle bolt.
      Torque:
        Stage 1:  59 lb.ft (80 Nm)
        Stage 2:  120°
   2. Remove and discard the front lower arm-to-frame bolt and remove the front lower arm.
      Torque:
        Stage 1:  59 lb.ft (80 Nm)
        Stage 2:  120°

Installation

1. NOTICE: Tighten the suspension fasteners with the weight of the vehicle on the wheels and tires or use a suitable jack to raise the suspension to curb height or damage to the bushings may occur.

   To install, reverse the removal procedure.
   

1. Check and if necessary adjust rear toe.
   Refer to: Rear Toe Adjustment (204-00 Suspension System - General Information, General Procedures).