Ford Explorer: Rear Suspension / Removal and Installation - Rear Stabilizer Bar

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.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
   Refer to: Jacking and Lifting - Overview (100-02 Jacking and Lifting, Description and Operation).
   

1. NOTICE: Do not use power tools to remove or install the stabilizer bar link nuts. Damage to the stabilizer bar link ball joints and boots may occur.

   NOTE: Use the TORX PLUS® holding feature to prevent the ball stud from turning while removing or installing the lower arm outboard nut. Torx® and TORX PLUS® is a reg. tm of Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC.

   NOTE: The stabilizer bar links are designed with low friction ball joints that have a low breakaway torque.

   
   
   • Remove and discard the rear stabilizer bar link upper nuts and disconnect the rear stabilizer bar links from the rear stabilizer bar.
     
   • Remove and discard the rear stabilizer bar bracket bolts and remove the rear stabilizer bar.
     

Installation

1. NOTICE: Make sure that the mating faces are clean and free of corrosion and foreign material.

   NOTICE: Do not use power tools to remove or install the stabilizer bar link nuts. Damage to the stabilizer bar link ball joints and boots may occur.

   NOTE: Use the TORX PLUS® holding feature to prevent the ball stud from turning while removing or installing the lower arm outboard nut. Torx® and TORX PLUS® is a reg. tm of Acument Intellectual Properties, LLC.

   NOTE: The stabilizer bar links are designed with low friction ball joints that have a low breakaway torque.

   1. Position the rear stabilizer bar and install the new rear stabilizer bar bracket bolts.
      Torque: 66 lb.ft (90 Nm)
   2. Position the rear stabilizer bar links and install the new rear stabilizer bar link nuts.
      Torque: 76 lb.ft (103 Nm)

1. • To install, reverse the removal procedure.