Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Suspension Official Ford preloading how to??

Originally posted by csvt99:

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I just had my rear subframe worked on and found out that the mechanic didn't "preload" the bushings. This procedure is described in the "rear suspension clunk" thread, but my mechanic wants the Ford write up or whatever on how to do it. Does anybody know where I can find this, or how to get it from the Ford service manual or anything?

TIA

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Damn, it isn't hard. Just put a jack under the lowest point of the hub where the trailing arm bolts to it and jack it up until the wheel is at stock ride height.(this assumes you have the car up on jack stands already) Loosen all the bolts on the control arms and trailing arms a little so that the bushings relax, then retighten. Then remove the jack....then peace of mind.

I will tell you that several years ago when I did my rear springs I never preloaded the bushings. They are still good and not worn out. However, I did preload them this time just for good measure since I know now.