Ford Explorer: Rear Suspension / Removal and Installation - Wheel Knuckle

Removal

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect the performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.

1. Remove the lower arm vertical link.
   Refer to: Lower Arm Vertical Link (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove and discard the rear shock absorber lower nut.
   

1. Remove the wheel bearing and wheel hub.
   Refer to: Wheel Bearing and Wheel Hub (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the bolts and the brake disc shield..
   

1. 1. Remove the wheel speed sensor bolt and position the wheel speed sensor aside.
      
   2. Remove the brake hose bracket bolt and position the brake hose bracket aside.
      

1. Support the halfshaft.
   
   1. Remove and discard the toe link-to-wheel knuckle bolt and nut.
      
   2. Remove and discard the upper arm-to-wheel knuckle bolt and nut.
      
   3. Support the halfshaft and remove the wheel knuckle.
      

Installation

1. NOTICE: Tighten the suspension bushing fasteners with the suspension loaded or with the weight of the vehicle resting on the wheels and tires, otherwise incorrect clamp load and bushing damage may occur.

   1. Position the wheel knuckle and install the new upper arm-to-wheel knuckle bolt and nut.
      Torque: 76 lb.ft (103 Nm)
   2. Install the new toe link-to-wheel knuckle bolt and nut.
      Torque: 129 lb.ft (175 Nm)

1. 1. Position the brake hose bracket and install the brake hose bracket bolt.
      Torque: 133 lb.in (15 Nm)
   2. Position the wheel speed sensor and install the wheel speed sensor bolt and wiring harness clip.
      Torque: 133 lb.in (15 Nm)

1. Install the brake disc shield.
   Torque: 133 lb.in (15 Nm)

1. Install the wheel bearing and wheel hub.
   Refer to: Wheel Bearing and Wheel Hub (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Install the new rear shock absorber lower nut.
   Torque: 59 lb.ft (80 Nm)

1. Install the lower arm vertical link.
   Refer to: Lower Arm Vertical Link (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Check and if necessary adjust rear toe.
   Refer to: Rear Toe Adjustment (204-00 Suspension System - General Information, General Procedures).