Frame Members-Rear Frame Section: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Rear frame section overview.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: All body alignment measurements are carried out with the vehicle detrimmed. Measurements are made metal to metal, on center, unless otherwise specified. Measure the vehicle to determine if the body requires straightening and alignment. The vehicle must be restored its correct overall dimensions prior to beginning this procedure.

Restore the vehicle to manufacturer's dimensions. Refer to: Body and Frame .
Remove the following items:
1. If required, remove the pickup bed. Refer to: Pickup Bed .
2. Lower and remove the spare tire, and remove the spare tire carrier winch assembly.
3. Drain and remove the fuel tank assembly. Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Midship Fuel Tank 6.2L V8 . Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Aft of Axle Fuel Tank 6.2L V8 . Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Midship Fuel Tank Triton-30V - V10 . Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Aft of Axle Fuel Tank Triton-30V - V10 . Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Midship Fuel Tank 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel . Refer to: Fuel Tank - Vehicles With: Aft of Axle Fuel Tank 6.7L Power Stroke Diesel .
4. Remove the rear portion of the exhaust system. Refer to: Rear Muffler . Refer to: Muffler and Tailpipe . Refer to: Tailpipe .
Position the vehicle on a frame rack and anchor following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
Perform detailed measurement of the frame, and perform any required pulling operations. This is necessary to ensure proper installation of the replacement frame section. Refer to: Body and Frame .
Using the frame rack towers, run a support chain under the rear cab mount area of the center section of the frame, and apply light tension to hold the cab and center section in place.
Remove the rear shock absorbers. Refer to: Rear Shock Absorber .
WARNING: Adjust the rear axle height to relieve spring tension before removing any shackle bolts, nuts or spring pins. Springs under tension may release with great force. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

Remove the rear spring eye and shackle bolts. Refer to: Spring - F-250/F-350 . Refer to: Spring - F-450/F-550 .
NOTE: The rear frame section on this vehicle is retained by a welded joint, (marriage joint), and upper and lower frame rail reinforcements approximately midway between leaf spring frame brackets.

NOTE: Use caution not cut into the mid rear side rail as it will be reused.

Grind the welds that retain the mid rear and rear frame sections. Use the General Equipment: Grinder

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Separate the ground area of the joints using an air chisel with a sharp 25.4 mm (1 inch) wide wedge chisel, or similar tool and remove the complete rear frame section with the help of an assistant.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
Using a wire brush or sandpaper, remove the e-coat paint from the existing frame near the edges to be welded on the inner and outer surfaces within approximately 15 mm (0.5 in.) of the repair joint.