This procedure is specific to 1982 through 1987 Continentals and 1984 through 1992 Mark Vlls. The struts on these models cannot be serviced and must be replaced as complete assemblies. To begin, loosen the front wheel lug nuts and raise the vehicle, supporting it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel and the disc brake caliper, hanging it out of the way with wire. Place a floor jack under the lower
Control Arm and raise it slightly. Unscrew the three upper mount to strut tower retaining nuts, and if the upper mount is to be removed from the strut assembly, loosen the center nut. Remove the strut to steering knuckle nuts and bolts, separating the two components and lifting the strut out of the wheel well. If the upper mount is to be replaced, remove the center retaining nut and slide off the mount. To install, place the upper mount over the top of the strut and install the nut if it was removed. Guide the strut assembly into position in the wheel well, pushing the upper mount studs through the holes in the shock tower. Install the three nuts and tighten them to the specified torque. Insert the steering knuckle into the lower mounting flange of the strut assembly and install the two bolts, using new bolts and nuts if recommended. Tighten the nuts to the specified torque. Finally, tighten the upper mount to strut assembly retaining nut to the specified torque. Remove the jack from under the control arm and install the disc brake caliper. Install the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.