Mustang GT V8-4.6L SOHC VIN X (1998)
Suspension Strut / Shock Absorber: Service and Repair
Rear Shock Absorber
Part 1 Of 2
Part 2 Of 2
REMOVAL
1. Open the luggage compartment to gain access to the upper shock stud.
2. Remove retaining nut, washer and insulator assembly from the rear shock absorber upper stud.
3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist and support rear axle housing.
4. Remove the lower shock absorber nut and bolt from the clevis style rear shock absorber lower mounting bracket.
WARNING: THESE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH GAS PRESSURIZED REAR SHOCK ABSORBERS WHICH WILL
EXTEND UNASSISTED. DO NOT APPLY HEAT OR FLAME TO THE SHOCK ABSORBER TUBE DURING REMOVAL.
5. From underneath the vehicle, compress the rear shock absorber to clear it from the rear shock absorber lower mounting bracket.
6. Remove the rear shock absorber.
INSTALLATION
1. Properly prime the new rear shock absorber to remove air from the working cylinder.
2. Position stud through shock tower mounting hole. Compress rear shock absorber as required and align rear shock absorber mounting eye to
attachment.
3. Lace the shock absorber's lower mounting eye between the ears of the lower rear shock absorber lower mounting bracket, then insert the bolt. The
bolt head must seat on the inboard side of the rear shock absorber lower mounting bracket, through the rear shock absorber lower mounting
bracket and the shock absorber mounting eye. Install a new nut. Do not tighten the nut at this time.
4. While holding the rear shock absorber in position, tighten the lower shock absorber bolt to 76-103 Nm (57-75 ft. lbs.).
5. Lower vehicle. Install the insulator assembly to the upper shock stud. Tighten to 34-46 Nm (25-33 ft. lbs.).