DIY Tips Struts, Shocks, Lowering Springs and Control Arm Replacement on 2002 Ford Mustang GT

Introduction:
This video is for entertainment only – I highlighted what work I did on my 2002 for Mustang GT convertible, and don’t take this as gospel. Use at your own risk and look at other sources as well and create a plan that works for you. Very similar process to all new edge mustangs 1994 – 2004. Springs store a lot of potential energy and are quite dangerous. Be mindful of the control arms and have them supported as soon/much as possible. I am not an expert mechanic and using this as a learning project. Again, entertainment only.

Scope of Work:
Install new Bilstein B12 Pro – Kit: Bilstein Shocks and Bilstein Struts
Install new Eibach pro-springs – **Note there are different springs for coupe and convertible**
Install new BBK performance front and rear isolators
Install general OEM replacement Control Arms and Ball Joints
Perform front end alignment
Inspect headlight alignment

Torque Specs:
Bilsten top front strut: 60 – 80 ftlbs depending on type, needs allen key
Brake slide pins: 25 ftlbs, 12mm (aftermarket)
Brake caliper anchor bolts: 85 ft lbs, 15mm, red Loctite
Front strut to steering knuckle: 148 ftlbs, 15/16 or 24mm
Ball Joint Castle Nut: 129 ft lbs, 16/16 or 24mm
Tie Rod Ends: 41 ft lbs, twist further to get cotter pin in, 18 mm
Front Control Arm Pivot Bolts: 148 ftlbs +, 24mm nut, 21mm bolt head
Rear Control Arm Bolt: 111 ft lbs
Sway bar end links: 15MM bolt, 10mm wrench to prevent turning
ABS Brake Sensor: E8 external socket
Steering rack: 30 – 40 ftlbs, 18mm nut, 15mm bolt head
Steering column pinch bolt: 30-40 ftlbs, long extension, blue Loctite

Specific Tools:
MMT-8 spring installation tool
E8 socket
Impact wrench is a huge help, but is possible to wrench it
Hammer, pickle fork or pitman arm puller to remove tie rod end and steering knuckle from ball joint
A jack you trust with your life and jack stands
PB blaster (put on key nuts/bolts the night before)
Socket set (including large sockets 15/16 and 24mm that don’t come in standard kits)
Torque wrench
Ball joint grease if your control arm does not come pre-greased

Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:39 Diagnosis
01:00 Rear Suspension
07:19 Pinion Snubber
08:02 Front Suspension
19:49 Final Steps