Spindle: Service and Repair

Wheel Spindle

Special Tool(s):

4.0L and 4.6L shown, 5.4L similar:

Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number or an equivalent part must be installed, if installation is necessary. Do not use a part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

1. Remove the wheel bearing and hub assembly.
2. Remove the 3 brake disc shield bolts, then remove the dust shield.
^ To install, tighten to 20 Nm (15 ft. lbs).
3. Remove the wheel speed sensor bolt and position the sensor aside.
^ To install, tighten to 15 Nm (11 ft. lbs).
4. Remove and discard the tie-rod end nut.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 ft. lbs).

5. CAUTION: Use care not to damage the tie-rod end dust boot.

Using the special tool, disconnect the tie-rod end from the front wheel spindle.





6. Support the front suspension lower arm with a jack stand.
7. Remove the lower ball joint nut and bolt.
^ To install, tighten to 103 Nm (76 ft. lbs).

8. CAUTION: Do not damage the lower ball joint boot while separating the lower control arm and the wheel spindle.

Separate the lower control arm and the wheel spindle.
9. If equipped, index-mark the 2 strut-to-spindle cam bolts.





10. WARNING: All vehicles are equipped with gas-pressurized struts which will extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the struts during removal or component servicing. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury.

NOTE: If equipped, do not discard the strut-to-spindle cam nuts and bolts.

Remove and discard the strut-to-spindle bolts and flag nuts.
^ To install, tighten to 200 Nm (148 ft. lbs).
11. Remove the wheel spindle.
12. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
13. Check and, if necessary, adjust the front end alignment.