Ford XL3Z-3084-BA Arm Assembly - Front Suspension

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First of all, the front suspension has independent wheels connected to the frame with steering knuckles, ball joints, and control arms. 2WD models use coil springs and shock absorbers, while 4WD models use shocks and torsion bars. Coil springs are positioned between the frame and lower control arms on 1997-2002 models, while later models have shock absorber/coil spring assemblies. A stabilizer bar reduces vehicle roll and connects to the frame and control arms. The steering linkage includes a Pitman arm, idler arm, center link, and tie-rod assemblies. The steering knuckles differ between 2WD and 4WD models. The rear suspension on trucks has leaf springs, shock absorbers, and U-bolts attaching the axle to the springs. Rubber bushings secure the front ends of the springs to the frame, and shackles connect the rear ends to the frame.

This procedure applies to both 2WD and 4WD models. If the vehicle is equipped with air suspension, turn off the air suspension system. The switch is located in the area of the right kick panel. Measure the height of the center of the hub to the ground before proceeding. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel. Position a floor jack, with a wood block on the jack head (to act as a cushion), under the lower control arm in the area between the spring seat and the balljoint. Raise the jack slightly to take the spring pressure off the upper control arm. Mark the position of the upper control arm camber adjustment cam. If the vehicle is equipped with a 4-wheel anti-lock brake system (4WABS), remove the bracket bolt for the wheel speed sensor wire and place the sensor wire out of harm's way. To disconnect the upper control arm from the steering knuckle, remove the cotter pin from the balljoint castle nut, loosen the nut a few turns (don't remove it), install a small puller and break the balljoint loose from the knuckle. Now remove the nut. Remove the upper control arm pivot bolts and nuts. Remove the control arm. Inspect the pivot bolt bushings for wear. If the bushings are worn, you'll have to replace the control arm. Inspect the upper balljoint seal. If it's leaking, replace the control arm. The balljoint is not serviceable. Position the arm in the frame brackets and install new bolts and nuts. They must be installed with their heads facing toward each other. Make sure the marks you made prior to disassembly are aligned, then tighten, but don't torque, the pivot bolt nuts. Attach the balljoint to the steering knuckle and tighten the ballstud nut. Reattach the 4WABS front brake anti-lock sensor wire bracket and tighten the bolt securely. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle. Tighten the lug nuts. Tighten the upper arm pivot bolt nuts, front nut first. Reactivate the air suspension system, if equipped.

When dealing with stubborn fasteners due to rust or corrosion, use penetrating oil, wire brushes, and caution. Strategies like applying a sharp blow with a hammer, heating the fastener area, or using breaker bars can help. However, exercise caution to prevent thread damage or fire hazards. Replace difficult-to-unscrew fasteners with new ones. For safety, use reliable jackstands and prefer a hydraulic floor jack for lifting and supporting components during various operations.

Position a floor jack with a wood block under the lower control arm to relieve spring pressure from the upper control arm. Mark the position of the upper control arm camber adjustment cam. If the vehicle has a 4-wheel anti-lock brake system (4WABS), remove the bracket bolt for the wheel speed sensor wire and place the sensor wire out of harm's way.