Steering Gear: Removal

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.

If installing a new steering gear, connect the scan tool and upload the module configuration information from the PSCM. Refer to: Module Configuration - System Operation and Component Description .
Using a suitable holding device, hold the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Remove the wheels and tires. Refer to: Wheel and Tire .
Remove the underbody shields. Refer to: Engine Front Undershield .
Remove the retainers and the LH steering gear splash shield.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Remove the retainers and the RH steering gear splash shield.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Do not use power tools to remove the stabilizer bar link nut. 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 Torx-Plus® holding feature to prevent the stabilizer bar link ball joint from turning while removing the stabilizer bar link lower nut.
1. On both sides. Remove and discard the front stabilizer bar link lower nut.
2. On both sides. Position aside the front stabilizer bar link.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
On both sides. Remove and discard the stabilizer bar bracket-to-front subframe retainers and position the stabilizer bar forward and support.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Do not use a hammer to separate the tie rod end from the wheel knuckle or damage to the wheel knuckle may result.

NOTE: Use care when installing the tie rod separator or damage to the tie rod end boot may occur.

NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent turning of the stud while removing the tie rod end nut.
1. On both sides. Remove and discard the tie rod end nut.
2. On both sides. Separate the tie rod end from the wheel knuckle. Use the General Equipment: Tie Rod End Remover
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
WARNING: Do not reuse steering column shaft bolts. This may result in fastener failure and steering column shaft detachment or loss of steering control. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious injury to vehicle occupant(s).
1. Remove and discard the steering column shaft bolt.
2. Separate the steering column shaft coupler from the EPAS gear.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Disconnect the EPAS gear harness electrical connectors.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
If equipped.
1. Remove the retainer.
2. Remove the retainer and the oil filter drip shield.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Unclip and position aside the EPAS gear harness.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Remove and discard the EPAS gear mounting bolts.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Rotate the EPAS gear towards the front of the vehicle so the stalk will clear the engine crank pulley.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Remove the steering gear from the RH side of the vehicle.

Remove the EPAS gear.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY