Front Suspension - Rattle When Cold

Article No.
96-16-1

07/29/96

^ SUSPENSION - FRONT - "RATTLE" NOISE - MOST NOTICEABLE IN COLD TEMPERATURES - VEHICLES BUILT FROM 8/14/95 THROUGH 1/19/96

^ NOISE - "RATTLE" FROM FRONT SUSPENSION - MOST NOTICEABLE IN COLD TEMPERATURES - VEHICLES BUILT FROM 8/14/95 THROUGH 1/19/96

FORD:
1996 MUSTANG

ISSUE:
A "rattle" noise coming from the front suspension is heard while going over bumps and is most noticeable in cold temperatures on some vehicles. This noise is due to the hardness of the rubber used in the front strut upper mount.

ACTION:
Replace the front strut dust cover assembly. The revised dust cover has a rubber compound that has reduced hardness during cold temperatures. Refer to the following Service Procedure for details.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. Verify the "rattle/thump" noise is coming from the upper strut mounting area using chassis ears or a similar tool.

2. After verifying noise, remove both front struts. Refer to the 1996 Mustang Service Manual, Page 04-01-7, for removal procedure.

NOTE:
DO NOT USE AN IMPACT WRENCH TO REMOVE THE STRUT SHAFT NUT. USE OF AN IMPACT WRENCH CAN DAMAGE THE INTERNAL STRUCTURE OF THE STRUT. USE A 21 mm WRENCH WHILE HOLDING THE STRUT SHAFT IN PLACE.

3. Install the revised Strut Dust Cover (F6ZZ-18A047-AA). Reinstall the front struts by referring to the 1996 Mustang Service Manual, Page 04-01-7.

PART NUMBER PART NAME

F6ZZ-18A047-AA Front Strut Dust cover

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage

OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME

961601A Install Front Strut Dust 1.4 Hrs.
Cover/Dampers

DEALER CODING
CONDITION
BASIC PART NO. CODE
18A047 56

OASIS CODES: 303000, 304000, 305000, 702000, 702100