Thunderbird V6-232 3.8L (1982)
Suspension Strut / Shock Absorber: Service and Repair
Strut
1.
Place ignition switch in the Unlocked position so that front wheels are free to move.
2.
From engine compartment, remove one strut to upper mounting nut. Use a screwdriver in rod slot to hold rod stationary when removing nut.
3.
Raise front of vehicle by lower control arms, then place safety stands under frame jack pads located rearward of wheels.
4.
Remove wheel and tire assembly, then remove brake caliper, rotor assembly and dust shield.
5.
Remove two nuts and bolts attaching lower strut to spindle. Gas pressurized struts (LTD, Marquis and 1983-87 Cougar and Thunderbird)
must be held firmly during removal of the last spindle-to-strut bolt since gas pressure will cause strut to extend fully when bolt is
removed.
6.
Lift strut upward from spindle to compress rod, then pull downward and remove strut.
7.
On 1983-87 models, remove jounce bumper.
8.
Reverse procedure to install. Torque upper mount attaching nut to 60-75 ft. lbs. on 1982 models, or 55-92 ft. lbs. on 1983-87 models. Remove
suspension load from lower control arm by lowering front of vehicle, then torque lower mounting nuts to 150-180 ft. lbs. on 1982 models, or
120-179 ft. lbs. on 1983-87 models.
