Rear suspension front mounting (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - renewal

1 Chock the front wheels, jack up the rear of the vehicle and support on axle stands placed under the side members.

2 Unscrew and remove the three bolts securing the relevant front guide plate to the underbody and the suspension crossmember.

Where applicable, bend back the lockwasher tab(s) on the larger bolt.

3 Using a length of wood, lever the suspension crossmember downwards a few inches from the underbody, and insert the wood as a wedge.

4 Using a tool similar to the Ford special tool shown (see illustration), or a long bolt with nut, washers and a suitable metal tube, pull the mounting rubber from the crossmember.

15.4 Ford special tool 15-014 for removing rear suspension front mounting
15.4 Ford special tool 15-014 for removing rear suspension front mounting rubber

5 Lubricate the new mounting rubber with soapy water, and use the tool described in the previous paragraph to press the rubber into the crossmember.

6 Further refitting is a reversal of removal.

Where applicable, secure the larger front guide plate bolt by bending up the lockwasher tab(s).

    See also:

    Seat belt check (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    1 Periodically check the belts for fraying or other damage. If evident, renew the belt. 2 If the belts become dirty, wipe them with a damp cloth using a little detergent only. 3 Check the tightnes ...

    Oil filler cap cleaning - OHVand HCS engines (Every 6000 miles or 6 months)
    1 Simply pull the oil filler cap from the rocker cover and, where applicable, disconnect the hose(s) from the cap. 2 Inspect the filler cap, and if necessary clean the cap using clean petrol to re ...

    Pistons and connecting rods - examination and renovation
    1.8 litre (R2A type) 1 Examine the pistons for ovality, scoring, and scratches. Check the connecting rods for wear or damage. 2 The gudgeon pins are an interference fit in the connecting rods, an ...