Ford DG1Z-18125-F Shock Absorber Assembly

For 2012 and earlier models, new shock absorbers are gas-filled, compressed, and retained with a strap. Don't remove the strap until installation. Measure wheel hub to fender distance at rest. Remove rear wheel, loosen the brake caliper and mounting bracket, and support the lower suspension arm. Remove upper shock absorber mounting nut, index spring position, compress coil spring with a floor jack, remove trailing arm-to-rear knuckle bolt, and lower arm-to-rear knuckle bolt. Lower the jack and remove shock absorber and coil spring. Align new components with match marks. Raise the suspension arm to simulate ride height, tighten fasteners, install the wheel, and lower the vehicle. For 2013 and later models, remove the rear wheel, detach the stabilizer bar link from the rear knuckle, support the lower suspension arm, remove the shock absorber upper mounting nut and lower mounting bolt. Installation is reverse of removal, using new fasteners. Raise the lower suspension arm to simulate ride height, tighten fasteners, install the wheel, and lower the vehicle.