Sable V6-183 3.0L DOHC VIN S MFI (1997)
Wheels: Testing and Inspection
ALL WHEELS
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Inspect the lug nuts and tighten to 115-142 Nm (85-105 ft. lbs.). Loose lug nuts can cause shimmy and vibration, and may also distort the stud
holes in the wheels.
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Make sure wheels and wheel hubs are clean. Stones wedged between the wheel and front disc brake rotor or lumps of mud and grease can
unbalance the wheel.
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Check the wheel pilot hole for rust. Rust in this area could prevent easy removal, so it should be cleaned before replacing the wheel.
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Check for wheel damage. Wobble or shimmy caused by a damaged wheel will eventually damage the bearings. Inspect the rims for dents that
could leak air.
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Inspect the front wheel hubs and lug nuts whenever the hubs are removed or at regular inspection intervals.
STEEL
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Rim bead seats on steel wheels should be cleaned with a wire brush or coarse steel wool to remove lubricants, old rubber and light rust.
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Wheel services that use welding, heating or peening are not approved. An inner tube is not an acceptable service for leaky wheels or tires.
ALUMINUM
CAUTION: Do not use steel wool, abrasive-type cleaner or strong detergents containing highly alkaline or caustic agents as damage to the
protective coating and discoloration may result.
NOTE: Automatic car wash tire brushes may damage aluminum and styled road wheel protective coatings. Before using such a service, be sure
abrasive-type brushes are not being used.
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Aluminum wheel rim bead seats should be cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaner to remove tire mounting lubricants and old rubber. Before
mounting or dismounting a tire, the bead area should be well lubricated with a ready-to-use liquid soap that meets Ford specification
ESR-M99B135-A or equivalent.
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On 15-inch wheels remove the center wheel cover applique from the wheel with the tapered end of the wheel nut wrench by inserting under the
raised notch, and rotating the handle while prying against the wheel.
MOUNTING AREA
Corrosion buildup can result in wheels sticking to the axle or front disc brake rotor flange after extensive service. To prevent this from recurring once
the wheels are removed, use the following procedure:
1. Clean the axle/front disc brake rotor flange and wheel bore of corrosion with a wire brush, steel wool or other suitable material.
2. Coat wheel bore with Disc Brake Caliper Slide Grease D7AZ-19590-A or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESA-M1C172-A. Do not apply
grease to wheel hub bolt nut seats or lug bolt.
3. Install wheel on vehicle.
