Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Shock Absorber

Removal

WARNING: All 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.

CAUTION: Suspension 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 becomes necessary. If substitution is necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

CAUTION: When using a hoist that lifts the vehicle by the frame, install new shock absorbers one at a time.

1. Open the luggage compartment lid. Position the carpet out of the way.

2. Remove and discard the retaining nut, washer and insulator assembly.

Shock Absorber

3. Raise the vehicle.

4. Remove the shock absorber (18125).

1. Remove and discard the bolt and nut.

2. Remove the shock absorber.

Shock Absorber

Installation

1. Correctly prime the new shock absorber.

2. Install a new washer and insulator on the shock absorber.

3. Position the shock absorber and install a new bolt and a new nut.

Shock Absorber

4. NOTE: When using a hoist that lifts the vehicle by the frame, have an assistant guide the shock absorber into the body while lowering the hoist.

Lower the vehicle.

5. Install a new insulator, washer and nut.

Shock Absorber

6. Position the carpet and close the luggage compartment lid.

    Installation
    1. NOTE: Inspect the spring insulators for wear or damage. Install new spring insulators if necessary. Make sure the spring insulators are correctly installed on the springs. 2. Install the spring ...

    Damper
    Removal CAUTION: Suspension 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 sa ...

    Other materials:

    Selector Lever
    Removal 1. Remove the shifter top control panel. 2. Disconnect the electrical connectors. 3. Remove the shifter bezel. 4. Remove the bulb from the bezel. 5. Disconnect the TCS connector. 6. CAUTION: Extra force may be needed to lift up on the handl ...

    Canister Vent Solenoid Closing Procedure
    Special Tool(s) Worldwide Diagnostic System (WDS) 418-F224, New Generation STAR (NGS) Tester 418-F052, or equivalent scan tool CAUTION: The canister vent solenoid must not be energized for more than nine minutes at one time. Once the ...

    Powertrain/Drivetrain Mount Neutralizing
    WARNING: The electrical power to the air suspension system must be shut off prior to hoisting, jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. This can be accomplished by turning off the air suspension switch. Failure to do so can result in unexpected inflation ...