Sector Shaft Arm Inspection - Backlash

WARNING: The electrical power to the air suspension must be shut off prior to hoisting jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. This can be accomplished by turning off the air suspension switch located in the luggage compartment. Failure to do so can result in unexpected inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result in the shifting of the vehicle during these operations.

Raise and support the vehicle.
Inspect the sector shaft air dust boot for cuts or tears. If it is cut or torn, install a new sector shaft arm. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION .

Fig 1: Identifying Sector Shaft Air Dust Boot
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Pull downward on the sector shaft arm drag link.

Fig 2: Identifying Sector Shaft Arm Drag Link
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using digital calipers, measure the distance from the top of the sector shaft arm forging to the bottom of the drag link.

Fig 3: Measuring Distance From Top Of Sector Shaft Arm Forging To Bottom Of Drag Link
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a C-clamp, fully compress the sector shaft arm ball stud.

Fig 4: Identifying C-Clamp
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Measure the distance from the top of the sector shaft arm forging to the bottom of the drag link.

Fig 5: Measuring Distance From Top Of Sector Shaft Arm Forging To Bottom Of Drag Link
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Subtract the second measurement from the first measurement. If the movement measure is greater than 0.11 in., install a new sector shaft arm. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION .