Thunderbird V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Radius Arm: Service and Repair
Strut Rod
REMOVAL
1. Raise vehicle on hoist.
2. Remove rear wheel and tire assembly.
3. Support rear suspension arm and bushing with a jackstand.
4. Remove bolt and nut securing rear suspension compensator link to rear suspension arm and bushing
CAUTION: To prevent damage, do not attempt to remove plastic cap on front pivot nut.
5. Remove front inner pivot bolt and nut from rear suspension arm and bushing.
6. Remove rear suspension compensator link.
INSTALLATION
1. Position rear suspension compensator link on rear suspension arm and bushing.
2. Install front pivot bolt and nut. Do not tighten nut at this time.
3. Install bolt and nut securing rear suspension compensator link to rear suspension arm and bushing. Tighten nut to 149-201 Nm (110-148 ft. lbs.).
4. Tighten front pivot bolt and nut to 225-275 Nm (166-202 ft. lbs.)
5. Remove jackstand. Install wheel and tire assembly. Tighten lug nut to 115-142 Nm (85-104 ft. lbs.).
