Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Arm - Lower

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 same part number or an equivalent part must be installed, if installation is necessary. Do not use a part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to ensure correct retention of these parts.

1. Mark the front shock absorber (18124) relative to the protective sleeve with the vehicle in a static, level ground position (curb height).

Arm - Lower

2. Raise the vehicle on a hoist.

3. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.

4. Remove the front brake disc shield.

5. CAUTION: To prevent damage to the front suspension lower arm (3078) do not remove the nut from the ball joint (3050) at this time.

Disconnect the ball joint stud from the arm.

  • Loosen the nut two or three turns.
  • Sharply rap on the front wheel spindle (3105) at the ball joint connection to disconnect the ball joint stud.

Arm - Lower

6. Remove the front coil spring (5310). For additional information, refer to Spring in this section.

7. Remove the nut and the front suspension lower control arm. Discard the nut.

Arm - Lower

Installation

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

Arm - Lower

2. Check wheel alignment. Adjust if necessary.

    Wheel Hub and Bearing
    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 ...

    Bar - Stabilizer
    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:

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    Connecting Rod - Bearing Journal Clearance
    Special Tool(s) Plastigage 303-D031 (D81L-6002-B) or equivalent NOTE: The crankshaft connecting rod journals must be within specifications to check the connecting rod bearing journal clearance. 1. Remove the connecting rod bearing cap. 2. ...

    Starter Motor - 3.8L
    Removal WARNING: When servicing starter motor (11002) or carrying out other underhood work in the vicinity of the starter motor, be aware that the heavy gauge battery input lead at the starter solenoid (11390) is "electrically hot" at all times. A prote ...