Suspension - Squeak From Rear of Vehicle
TSB 06-20-1210/16/06
SQUEAK / CREAK NOISE FROM REAR - VEHICLES
BUILT BEFORE 9/5/2006
FORD:
2006-2007 Escape Hybrid, Escape
MERCURY:
2006-2007 Mariner Hybrid, Mariner
ISSUE
Some 2006-2007 Escape, Mariner, Escape Hybrid and Mariner Hybrid vehicles built before 9/5/2006 may exhibit a high pitched squeaking noise from the rear upper shock bushing area. This concern is more noticeable while driving over small cracks or bumps during parking lot maneuvers. This may be caused by the upper shock bushing coming out of position causing the shock rod to contact the body.
ACTION
Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition by replacing the shock bushing.
NOTE
IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO REPLACE THE SHOCK ASSEMBLY.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Verify noise is present by bouncing the parked vehicle from the rear and listening to the rear shock area. If inaudible, drive the vehicle and listen to the rear shock area during parking lot maneuvers over small bumps. If noise is determined to be from the upper rear shock area, continue with repair procedure.
1. Remove rear quarter trim panels to expose the upper shock bushing.
2. Remove upper shock rod nuts, washer and bushing.
3. Pull down on shock rod from the outside of the vehicle to remove the lower bushing and provide clearance for drilling the bushing hole.
4. Using a step drill bit (preferably one that stops at 7/8" or 22 mm) and drilling from inside the rear of the vehicle from the top down enlarge the mounting hole to 7/8" (22 mm). (Figure 1) Drill bits may be obtained from the Rotunda Technician Tool Program (RTTP) tool number VGP161O4 or a local tool supplier.
5. De-burr the newly drilled hole and coat with Motorcraft� Low Temperature Anti-Corrosion Coating, PM-12-A.
NOTE
USE OF PM-12-A FOR THE ENLARGED HOLE IS ESSENTIAL TO PREVENT CORROSION IN THIS CRITICAL AREA EXPOSED TO MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.
6. Install new lower half of the upper bushing and washer onto shock rod. (Figure 2)
7. Guide the shock rod and bushing through the hole and verity that the bushing is completely through the hole. (Figure 3)
8. Install upper bushing / washer nut and torque to 29 lb-ft (40 N.m).
NOTE
IT MAY BE NECESSARY TO HOLD THE TOP OF SHOCK ROD DURING TORQUE OPERATION TO ELIMINATE ROTATION OF SHOCK ROD.
NOTE
BUSHING WILL BE NOTICEABLY COMPRESSED MORE THAN THE STOCK BUSHING. (FIGURE 4)
9. Repeat procedure for the other side.
10. Reinstall the rear trim panels.
Parts Block
WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage
OPERATION DESCRIPTION TIME
062012A 2006-2007 Escape, 1.0 Hr.
Mariner, Escape Hybrid,
Mariner Hybrid: Replace
The Upper Shock
Bushings Following Service
Procedure (Do Not Use
With 18125A, 31012A)
DEALER CODING
CONDITION
BASIC PART NO. CODE
18008 07
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