service FORD MUSTANG 2003 Owner's Guide

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Link —
Stabilizer Bar
Removal
CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
2. NOTE: Spring is removed for clarity.
NOTE: To remove the nuts, first loosen the nut, then use the hex holding feature to prevent the
stabilizer bar link ball joint from turning while removing the nut.
Remove the nuts and the stabilizer bar links (5C488). Discard the nuts.
Installation 1. NOTE: The nuts on the stabilizer bar links are of a torque prevailing design. New nuts must be
used during installation.
NOTE: To install the nuts, first install the nut until snug using the hex holding feature to prevent
the stabilizer bar link ball joint from turning. Final tighten the nuts using a socket and a torque
wrench.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Klj . 1 ba
22003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Wheel Knuckle —
Cobra
Removal CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Mark the rear shock absorber (18125) relative to the protective sleeve with the vehicle in a static, level ground position (curb height).
2. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
3. Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to Section 204 - 04 .
4. Remove and discard the rear hub retainer (4B477).
SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Special Tool(s)
Front Hub Remover
205-
D070 (D93P-1175- B) or
Equivalent Steering Arm Remover
211-
003 (T64P-9171- A) Klj . 1 ba
92003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

13. Connect the parking brake cable and conduit to the rear brake caliper and install the clip.
14. Connect the parking brake cable and conduit to the parking brake lever.
15.
CAUTION: The axle retainer must be tightened with the brakes applied and the
wheels off the ground to make sure of correct bearing seating. Failure to do so can
cause the retainer to loosen, causing extensive vehicle damage and loss of vehicle
control.
Lower the vehicle and apply the parking brake or service brakes.
16. Tighten the retainer.
17. Install the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to Section 204 - 04
18. Lower the vehicle.
19. Check the wheel alignment. Adjust as necessary. For additional information, refer to
Section 204 - 00 . Klj . 8 ba
92003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Toe Link —
Cobra
Removal CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to Section 204 - 04 .
3. Remove the rear brake disc. For additional information, refer to Section 206 - 04 .
4. Support the lower suspension arm and bushing (5A649) with a jack stand.
5. Remove the nut and bolt and disconnect the shock absorber (18125) from the lower suspension arm and bushing. Discard the nut and bolt.
6. Remove and discard the cotter pin and nut.
SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Special Tool(s)
Steering Arm Remover
211-
003 (T64P-9171- A) Klj . 1 ba
42003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Spring —
Coil
Removal CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
All vehicles
1. Mark the rear shock absorber (18125) relative to the protective sleeve with the vehicle in a static, level ground position (curb height).
2. Raise the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
3. Disconnect the anti- lock sensor wire.
SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Special Tool(s)
Hi-
Lift Jack
014- 00942 or Equivalent Klj . 1 ba
52003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Spring —
Cobra
Removal CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
2. Support the No. 1 crossmember with a jack stand.
3. Remove both wheel and tire assemblies. For additional information, refer to Section 204 - 04 .
4. Remove both mufflers. For additional information, refer to Section 309 - 00 .
5. Remove the driveshaft. For additional information, refer to Section 205 - 01 .
6. Disconnect the parking brake cable and conduits from the parking brake levers.
7. Remove the clip and disconnect the parking brake cable and conduits from the rear brake calipers. SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Special Tool(s)
Rotunda Powertrain Lift
014-00765 or Equivalent Klj . 1 ba
92003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Shock Absorber
Removal
WARNING: All vehicles are equipped with gas pressurized shock absorbers which will
extend unassisted. Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorbers during removal or
component servicing. Failure to follow these instructions can result in personal injury.
CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
CAUTION: When using a hoist that lifts the vehicle by the frame, install new shock
absorbers one at a time.
1. Open the luggage compartment lid. Position the carpet out of the way.
2. Remove and discard the retaining nut, washer and insulator assembly.
3. Raise the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
4. Remove the shock absorber (18125). 1. Remove and discard the bolt and nut.
2. Remove the shock absorber.
Installation SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Klj . 1 ba
32003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
Damper
Removal
CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital
components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with
the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. If substitution is
necessary, the part must be of the same finish and property class. Torque values must be used
as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Raise the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Section 100 - 02 .
2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly. For additional information, refer to Section 204 - 04 .
3. Disconnect the damper from the axle. 1. Remove the bolt.
2. Disconnect the damper.
4. Remove the damper. 1. Remove the nut.
2. Remove the outer washer.
3. Remove the damper.
Installation 1. Make sure the inner washer is positioned on the stud. SECTION 204-
02: Rear Suspension 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Klj . 1 ba
32003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
Wheels And Tires
Inspection and Verification
WARNING: A vehicle equipped with a Traction- Lok® differential will always have both
wheels driving. If, while the vehicle is being serviced, only one wheel is raised off the ground
and the rear axle is driven by the engine, the wheel on the ground could drive the vehicle off
the stand or jack. Be sure both rear wheels are off the ground.
WARNING: Never run the engine with one wheel off the ground, for example, when
changing a tire. The wheel(s) resting on the ground could cause the vehicle to move.
WARNING: Do not balance the wheels and tires while they are mounted on the vehicle.
Possible tire disintegration or differential failure could result, causing personal injury and
extensive component damage. Use off- vehicle wheel and tire balancer only.
Be sure to follow the warnings when carrying out inspection and verification.
Road Test
Verify the customer concern by carrying out a road test on a smooth road. If any vibrations are
apparent, refer to Section 100 - 04 .
To maximize tire performance, inspect for signs of incorrect inflation and uneven wear, which may
indicate a need for balancing, rotation, or front suspension alignment.
Correct tire pressure and driving techniques have an important influence on tire life. Heavy cornering,
excessively rapid acceleration and unnecessary sharp braking increases tire wear.
Replacement tires must follow the recommended:
ztire sizes.
z speed rating.
z load range.
z tire construction type.
Use of any other tire size or type can seriously affect:
zride.
z handling.
z speedometer/odometer calibration.
z vehicle ground clearance.
z tire clearance between the body and chassis.
SECTION 204-
04: Wheels and Tires 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Klj . 1 ba
42003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...

SPECIFICATIONS
All driveshaft and pinion angles point downward.
a
Service refill capacities are determined by filling the axle 6.3 mm (0.25 in [1/4 in]) to 14.3 mm (0.57 in
[5/16 in]) below the bottom of the filler hole. The vehicle must be on a level surface.
b Friction Modifier
SECTION 205-
00: Driveline System — General Information 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual Driveline Angles @ Curb Specifications
Engine (L) Engine Angle (Deg) Driveshaft Angle (Deg) Pinion Angle (Deg)
3.8 4.0 2.95 0.55
4.6 (2V) 4.0 3.61 0.55
General Specifications Item Specification
Axle Capacities and Lubricant Specifications
7.5 inch rear axle
a 1.5 liters (3.5 pints)
8.8 inch rear axle
a
(base and GT vehicles) 1.9 liters (4.0/3.75 pints)
Traction-
Lok b 118 ml (4 oz)
Premium Rear Axle Lubricant
XY-
80 W90- QL WSP-
M2C197- A Additive Friction Modifier
C8AZ-
19B546- A EST-
M2C118- A Premium Long-
Life Grease
XG -1-C ESA-
M1C75- B Klj . 1 ba
22003 Mustang Workshop Manual
17. 11. 2011file:///C:/Ford/2000 - 2004/tsocache/SHEF_4464/S3B~us~en~ ...