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Home >> Ford >> 2012 >> Explorer Base, 2.0 9 >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 249 (Front Suspension) >> Removal And Installation >> Stabilizer Bar >> Removal
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Stabilizer Bar: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. NOTE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.
    NOTE: Make sure the steering wheel is in the unlocked position.
    NOTE: The stabilizer bushing and bracket are part of the stabilizer bar assembly. The stabilizer bar will not turn easily in the bushing.

    With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. REFER to JACKING AND LIFTING , Lifting Points.

  2. Disconnect the HO2S  electrical connector and unclip the connector from the subframe.
    Fig 1: Locating HO2S Electrical Connector
    G06064870Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Vehicles equipped with 3.5L, remove the engine exhaust Y-pipe. REFER to EXHAUST Y-PIPE - 3.5L TI-VCT .
  4. NOTE: Do not use power tools to remove the stabilizer bar link nuts. Damage to the stabilizer bar link ball joint or boot may occur.
    NOTE: To remove the stabilizer bar link lower nut, loosen the nut, then use the hex holding feature to prevent the stabilizer bar link ball joint from turning while removing the stabilizer bar link lower nut.

    Remove and discard the stabilizer bar link lower nuts.

  5. NOTE: No special tools are necessary to separate the tie rod end from the front wheel knuckle; use a mallet to loosen the joint.

    Remove and discard both tie-rod end nuts and separate the tie-rod ends from the wheel knuckles.

  6. Remove and discard the 4 lower control arm rearward nuts and bolts.
  7. Remove and discard the 2 lower control arm forward bolts and position both lower control arms aside.
  8. Using a suitable jackstand, support the rear of the subframe.
  9. Remove the 2 steering gear nuts and bolts.
  10. Remove and discard the 4 subframe bracket bolts.
  11. Remove and discard the 2 subframe forward bolts.
  12. Remove and discard the 2 subframe rearward bolts.
    Fig 2: Locating Subframe Forward And Rearward Bolts
    G06280574Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  13. Lower the rear of the subframe approximately 51 mm (2 in).
    Fig 3: Measuring Rear Subframe Lowering Dimension
    G06064872Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  14. Remove and discard the 2 LH and 2 RH stabilizer bar bracket bolts.
  15. Remove the stabilizer bar by guiding it between the subframe and the steering gear toward the RH side of the vehicle.
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