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Shock Absorber and Spring Assembly: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lincoln Town Car. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
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.
WARNING: The shock absorber and spring assembly is under extreme load. Do not attempt to disassemble the shock absorber and spring assembly without using a spring compressor. 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 is necessary. Do not use a new part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
  1. Remove the shock absorber and spring assembly. For additional information, refer to SHOCK ABSORBER AND SPRING ASSEMBLY .
    2. CAUTION: Over-tightening the vise can damage the shock absorber tube.
    Fig 1: Marking Upper Mount, Spring And Shock Absorber
    G04035973Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Mount and mark the shock absorber and spring assembly.
    1. Position the shock absorber and spring assembly in a suitable holding device.
    2. Mark the upper mount, spring and shock absorber for assembly reference.
    3. NOTE: If installing a new spring, make sure the part number is correct. Refer to the vehicle certification (VC) label for the correct spring code. Refer to VEHICLE CERTIFICATION (VC) LABEL to convert the spring code to a part number.
    Fig 2: Compressing Spring
    G04035974Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Compress the spring.
    1. Install an appropriate spring compressor.
    2. Compress the spring.
  4. While holding the shock absorber rod, remove and discard the nut.
    Fig 3: Removing Shock Absorber Nut
    G04035975Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  5. Remove the upper mount and dust boot as an assembly.
    Fig 4: Removing Upper Mount And Dust Boot
    G04035976Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  6. Carefully remove the spring and spring compressor.
    Fig 5: Removing Spring And Spring Compressor
    G04035977Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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