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:

    Component Tests
    Battery-Load Test 1. With the engine running, turn the A/C on, the blower motor on high speed and the headlamps on high beam. 2. Increase the engine speed to approximately 2,000 rpm. The voltage should increase a minimum of 0.5 volt above the ba ...

    Component Tests
    Ball Joint Inspection 1. Raise and support the vehicle. 2. Prior to performing any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the wheel bearings. 3. Position a safety stand beneath the front suspension lower arm (3079) to be tested. 4. While an assistant pul ...

    Washer fluid check
    WARNING: If you operate your vehicle in temperatures below 40°F (5°C), use washer fluid with antifreeze protection. Failure to use washer fluid with antifreeze protection in cold weather could result in impaired windshield vision and increase the risk of inj ...