OEM 2009 Ford Escape Steering Knuckle

2009 Ford Escape Steering Knuckle Parts Q&A

• Q: How to service and repair the steering knuckle on 2009 Ford Escape?

  A: The procedure to work on the steering knuckle includes first removing the brake disc and discarding the wheel hub nut. You should detach the wheel hub from the outer CV joint spindle using the Front Hub Remover tool. Set aside the tie-rod end nut after removal by avoiding the use of hammers on the wheel knuckle to prevent damaging structures. You should use the Tie-Rod End Remover to disconnect the tie rod from the wheel knuckle structure. First remove and discard the lower ball joint bolt and nut before leaving the wheel speed sensor bolt to be removed along with its sensor. First separate the lower ball joint from the wheel knuckle before removing its two strut-to-knuckle nuts and bolts which should be discarded. Position the new wheel knuckle and fasten two new strut-to-knuckle bolts and nuts by tightening them to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft). The ball joint stud needs alignment with the wheel knuckle before fitting the new lower ball joint bolt and nut tightly to 63 Nm (46 lb-ft). Secure the wheel speed sensor along with its bolt by torquing them to 9 Nm (80 lb-in). Insert the tie-rod end segment into the wheel knuckle before adding the new tie-rod end component nut which needs tightening at 80 Nm (59 lb-ft). After installing the halfshaft inside the wheel hub with the Halfshaft Installer you should put back the brake disc. During front wheel hub nut installation the vehicle must not remain on the ground since the application of brake pressure should stop halfshaft rotation before performing correct nut tightening procedures up to 300 Nm (221 lb-ft). The last step involves checking and aligning the front end according to necessary standards.