Ford 8L8Z-16700-A Latch

Mark the position of the latch to aid in alignment on installation by drawing alignment marks around the hood hinges to ensure proper alignment of the hood when it's reinstalled. On 2004 models, remove the mounting nut. On 2005 and later models, loosen the nut but don't remove it. Remove the hood latch mounting bolts. Release the Hood Release Cable outer sleeve, then unhook the end of the Hood Release Cable. Remove the latch. Installation is the reverse of removal. Adjust the latch so that the hood engages securely when closed and the hood bumpers are slightly compressed. Working in the passenger compartment, remove the driver's side kick panel. Lift the hood release handle lever upward, then rotate the Hood Release Cable housing end and disengage the Hood Release Cable from the hood release handle. If the handle lever needs to be replaced, remove the handle mounting bolts to release it from the instrument panel. Attach a piece of thin wire or string to the end of the cable. Working in the engine compartment, disconnect the Hood Release Cable from the latch assembly. Unclip all the cable retaining clips on the radiator support and the inner fender well.