Ford BT4Z-18124-D Shock Absorber Assembly

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When carrying out a shock absorber check, ensure that the car is parked on a smooth ground with its engine switched off and parking brakes kept in place while checking tire pressures. Press down at each quarter of the vehicle noting its body movement in anticipation for straightening after one or two rebounds; continuous bouncing back or unequal positions might mean eroded shock absorbers. Even though if considerable leakage is present we should replace them, they can be retained as long as there are no leaks when performing this test on the rest of the corners and examining for shocks' fluid leakage. The upper mounts should also be checked for wear or damage, confirming their firm attachment and subsequently replacing them where necessary. For steering and suspension examination, monitor tyre wear patterns, inflation rates as well as inspect universal joint, dust boots, steering gear housing, boot clamps, tie rod ends and any damage to all components of suspension and steering mechanism plus worn out bolts or rubber bushings. While an assistant turns the steering wheel check for easy movement without causing wear down or sticking during these findings. Move each control arm up and down to assess play in ball joints; remove those with play by replacing worn out ones. Walk around feeling the boot grease along with cracks which may have occurred therein. Behind look at suspension arm bushings for signs of decayed leaves. Still perform a CV Boot Check by washing them before closely examining them for signs of tear off/peelings/cracks and flimsy fasteners particularly concerning outer CV boot due to its regular movement in accordance with steering activity; if more than one crack is visible then it needs replacement because lubricant has leaked through outer CV boot hole.

On 2015 and later models, remove the cowl panel. In the engine compartment, mark the relationship of one of the mounting studs to the body, then remove the four upper mounting nuts. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel. Unbolt the brake hose bracket from the shock absorber. Remove the wheel speed sensor and detach the wiring harness by removing the clamp bracket bolt. On 2015 and later models, remove the stabilizer bar link nut and disconnect the link from the strut. Support the control arm with a floor jack and unscrew the nuts securing the strut to the steering knuckle, then tap the bolts out with a hammer. Only turn the nuts; the bolts have serrated shoulders, and to turn them could damage the steering knuckle. Use the floor jack to lower the knuckle to allow room to remove the shock absorber/coil spring assembly, but be careful not to over extend the inner CV joint. Check the shock body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks and other obvious damage which would warrant replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating. Inspect the spring seat for cuts, hardness and general deterioration. If any undesirable conditions exist, proceed to the shock absorber/coil spring disassembly procedure. Guide the assembly up into the fenderwell, align the previously made match marks and insert the upper mounting studs through the holes in the body. Once the studs protrude, install the new nuts so the shock won't fall back through but don't tighten them yet. This is most easily accomplished with the help of an assistant, as the strut is quite heavy and awkward. Use the jack to position the steering knuckle and install the two lower mounting bolts and nuts, then tighten the nuts to the torque. Install the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the torque. Tighten the upper mounting nuts to the torque. Have the front end alignment checked, and if necessary, adjusted.

Maneuver the shock out of the vehicle.

To maintain balanced characteristics on both sides of the vehicle, it's advisable to replace components on both sides simultaneously.

Check the shock body for leaking fluid, dents, cracks, and other obvious damage that would warrant replacement. Check the coil spring for chips or cracks in the spring coating. Inspect the spring seat for cuts, hardness, and general deterioration.

Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Block the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling and remove the rear wheel.

Inspect the shock absorbers for fluid leakage, ensure they are securely mounted and undamaged, and pay attention to upper mounts for wear or damage. Replace them if needed.

The springs and related components can be individually replaced.