replace front strut bearing mount

[TaurusKing]

I need to replace a front strut bearing mount which requires removal of the strut.. according to my factory manual, ball joint and tierod don't need to be seperated in order to remove the strut. however, in looking around the web, seems that these items may need to be disassembled in order to do the job. Any help?? Thanks

[shorod]

It's certainly easier to maneuver the strut assembly out if you disconnect the outer tie rod end from the knuckle, but may not be worth the risk of damaging the rubber boot. If you chose not to disconnect the outer tie rod end you may need a second person and a long, sturdy pipe. You can use the pipe between the lower control arm and the subframe/cradle to force the lower control arm down just enough more to get the strut assembly out.

-Rod

[TaurusKing]

Thanks for the comeback.. I was looking around the web, others had dropped subframes, busted out balljoints, etc.. don't really want to get that involved in car repair anymore, at least in my driveway. Ford cd says only remove stab link, assorted misc and pry down on the control arm to get the strut out. Seems not too bad, was thinking maybe pop out the tierod, I do have a screw down separator for the end that would spare the boot, maybe give me a little more to work with. I just need to turn the wheel to get behind the knuckle to pry it open a bit. Worse comes to worse, I could pull the knuckle. Just trying to avoid heavy duty.. maybe I'll farm it out.. if I do attack it, I'll post back how it went.

[shorod]

Out of curiosity, what year is the this Taurus?

-Rod

[TaurusKing]

1999

[shorod]

Yep, like the service manual says, you shouldn't need to disconnect the ball joint or even remove the outer tie rod end.

-Rod