Rear suspension angles - general
The rear wheel toe and camber angles are set in production and do not require checking under normal service conditions. Of the two, only the toe setting can be adjusted, the camber angle being fixed by production sizes and tolerances.
The only time that angles will need to be checked will be after an accident in which the rear of the car has suffered damage or where a rear end skid has caused a side impact on a rear roadwheel.
Severely worn components of the rear suspension can also cause the angles to be misaligned, in which case renewal of the defective components should rectify the suspension angles and alignment.
The actual settings have been revised a number of times as a result of component changes during the course of production and also to improve directional stability. The settings also vary according to model year, engine size and optional equipment, and to list all the settings would be beyond the scope of this manual. If in any doubt about the rear suspension angles, or if the rear tyre wear appears excessive it is recommended that the car be taken to a Ford dealer for accurate checking on optical alignment equipment.
See also:
Engine dismantling, examination, renovation and reassembly - general
information
1.8 litre (R2A type)
Dismantling
1 It is best to mount the engine on a
dismantling stand, but if this is not available,
stand the engine on a strong bench at a
comfortable working height. Failing ...
Flywheel/driveplate - removal, inspection and refitting
Note: The manufacturers recommend that the
flywheel/driveplate securing bolts are renewed
after slackening. Suitable thread-locking agent
will be required to coat the bolt threads.
Removal
1 If t ...
Rear suspension lower arm (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - removal
and refitting
Models with rear drum brakes
Removal
1 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of
the vehicle and support on axle stands placed
under the side members.
2 Remove the relevant driveshaft.
3 Remov ...
