On 2008 and later models, the manufacturer advises that all suspension and steering system fasteners requiring specific torque should be replaced with new ones whenever removed, excluding the subframe bolts. Begin by disconnecting the battery negative cable, loosening the front wheel lug nuts, applying the parking brake, jacking up the front of the vehicle, and supporting it on axle stands. Center and lock the steering wheel by removing the ignition key, then remove both front wheels. Detach the tie-rod end ball joint nuts on both sides and use a conventional ball joint removal tool to detach the rods from the arms on the steering knuckles, taking care not to damage the ball joint seals. Remove the connecting link bottom ball joint nuts and disconnect them from the Sway Bar on both sides, using a ball joint removal tool if necessary. Disconnect the steering column shaft from the pinion extension by removing the securing bolt at the lower part of the steering column, then remove the engine undertray if equipped. Remove the bolt from the insulator support bracket on the rear of the transaxle unit. Support the crossmember with a suitable jack, remove the six crossmember securing bolts, and carefully lower it just enough to access the Sway Bar clamps, marking the mounting points for correct installation if a special tool is unavailable. Unscrew and remove the Sway Bar mounting bolts from the crossmember on both sides, then withdraw the Sway Bar, ensuring no damage to surrounding components. To remove the Sway Bar connecting links from the strut assembly, detach the top ball joint nuts from the strut bracket. If complete removal of the crossmember is necessary, also remove the lower suspension arms and steering rack. For installation, ensure the Sway Bar bushings are correctly located on the flats of the Sway Bar without lubricant, set the Sway Bar to the design height of 3-7/8 inches, and support it. Install the clamps to the Sway Bar, tightening the rear bolts first, followed by the front bolts in two stages. Remove the Sway Bar support for the design height, jack the crossmember into the correct position on the chassis, ensuring the ball bearing washers are installed correctly before tightening the new bolts. Replace the crossmember bolts and tighten them to the specified torque, then complete the process by reversing the removal steps, ensuring all relevant bolts are replaced and tightened to their specified torque.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist 
