Ford Fusion: Rear Suspension / Lower Arm Vertical Link. Removal and Installation

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

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 wheel and tire.
   Refer to: Wheel and Tire (204-04A Wheels and Tires, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Support the rear suspension to ride height.
   Use the General Equipment: Vehicle/Axle Stands

1. 1. Remove the lower arm vertical link-to-lower arm bolt.
      
   2. Remove the lower arm vertical link-to-wheel knuckle bolt and remove the lower arm vertical link.
      

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.

   Position the lower arm vertical link.
   
   1. Install the lower arm vertical link-to-wheel knuckle bolt
      Torque: 129 lb.ft (175 Nm)
   2. Install lower arm vertical link-to-lower arm bolt
      Torque:
         Aluminum lower arm::   129 lb.ft (175 Nm)
         Cast-iron lower arm::   103 lb.ft (140 Nm)

1. Install the wheel and tire.
   Refer to: Wheel and Tire (204-04A Wheels and Tires, Removal and Installation).