If certain procedures covered by this manual require the cab/body mount bolts
to be removed so that the body may be raised, it is critical that the body NOT
be raised any more than necessary for access. If the cab/body is lifted too
high, twisting and damage could occur. The body must be properly supported at
all times.
If a cab/body mount must be removed completely for replacement, ALL mounts
on that side of the vehicle MUST be unbolted in order to prevent damage. Again,
the body must be suitably supported at multiple points (near each of the mounts)
in order to prevent damage.
- Raise and support the vehicle safely by placing jackstands under the body
at each of the mounts on that side. Protect the body from the jackstands using
wooden blocks. The blocks will also help distribute the vehicle's weight on
a larger area than the lips of the jackstand. Place at least one jackstand
under the frame temporarily for safety.
- Loosen and remove the mount bolts on that side of the vehicle. If possible,
remove the retainer and lower cushion as well.
| Fig. 1: Body mounting positions and components — 1983–95
Pick-ups
|
| Fig. 2: Body mounting positions and components — 1992–95
Monteros
|
| Fig. 3: Body mounting positions and components — 1983–91
2-door Monteros
|
| Fig. 4: Body mounting positions and components — 1983–91
4-door Monteros
|
- Remove the jackstand from the FRAME only, then slowly lower the frame away
from the body on that side. Make sure you remain clear of the frame during
this step. Also keep small children and pets away. (If you think ethylene
glycol antifreeze is bad for them, a descending frame is even worse).
NOTE: Do not lower the frame away from the body any more
than absolutely necessary.
- Once the frame is lowered sufficiently, support it at this new height using
a jackstand for safety.
- Remove the upper cushion, spacer and shims, as applicable.
- During installation remember that at NO point should you work under the
vehicle unless both the body and frame are supported using jackstands. The
floor jack is NOT sufficient to assure safety, even for short periods of time.
- Install the upper body bushing, spacers and shims that were removed.
- Raise the frame with the floor jack until it contacts the body. Support
the frame with a jackstand at this height. Install the lower bushings, spacers,
washers and new nuts.
- Tighten the nuts to 20–23 ft. lbs. (28–32 Nm) for 1983–95
Pick-ups and 1983–91 Monteros, and tighten to 35 ft. lbs. (47 Nm) for
1992–95 Monteros.
- Once all of the removed body mounts has been tightened, lower the vehicle
to the ground. Repeat for the other side, if needed.
