For removal, begin by applying the parking brake and removing the wheel cover from the front wheel, loosening the drive axle/hub nut without removing it. Loosen the three top strut nuts by five turns, or four turns for 2005 through 2007 models. Loosen the front wheel nuts, jack up the vehicle, and support it on axle stands before removing the front wheel. Unscrew the tie-rod end ball joint nut and detach the rod from the steering knuckle using a ball joint removal tool, taking care not to damage the ball joint seal. Remove the ABS sensor if equipped, followed by the brake caliper and brake disc, suspending the caliper to avoid damaging the hose. Unscrew and remove the drive axle/hub nut, noting that it can only be reused up to four times. Remove the lower arm ball joint clamp bolt from the knuckle assembly, lever the ball joint down, and take care not to damage the seal. Pull the steering knuckle and hub assembly from the drive axle splines, using a universal puller if necessary, and suspend the drive axle while ensuring the inner constant velocity joint is not turned excessively. Unscrew and remove the pinch-bolt securing the steering knuckle assembly to the front suspension strut, then pry open the clamp to release the knuckle. For installation, locate the assembly on the front suspension strut, insert the pinch-bolt with the head facing the same way as during removal, and tighten it to the specified torque. Pull the steering knuckle/hub assembly outward and insert the drive axle to engage the splines, using a special tool if needed. Install the lower arm ball joint to the knuckle assembly, insert the clamp bolt, and tighten it. Install the drive axle/hub nut and tighten moderately, with final tightening done once the vehicle is lowered. Reinstall the brake caliper and brake disc, followed by the brake hose support bracket and ABS sensor if equipped. Reconnect the tie-rod end ball joint to the steering knuckle and tighten the nut. Finally, install the front wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the three top strut mounting bolts along with the drive axle/hub nut and wheel nuts before installing the wheel cover.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist 
