This procedure covers the removal and installation of the rear coil springs on a 2021-2024 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, including shock absorber disconnection and suspension component manipulation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear coil spring (left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification for correct load rating
• Coil spring isolator (upper) × 1 — Inspect and replace if damaged
• Coil spring isolator (lower) × 1 — Inspect and replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid ground and engage parking brake
2. Chock the front wheels securely
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Raise the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack at the rear differential or frame rail
5. Support the vehicle frame with jack stands rated for the vehicle weight on both sides
6. Remove both rear wheels completely
7. Spray all suspension fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
8. Position a floor jack under the rear axle or lower control arm on the side being serviced to support the suspension

Procedure

1. 1

   Support the rear axle assembly
   Position a floor jack under the rear axle housing or lower control arm near the spring mount. Raise the jack just enough to support the weight and take slight tension off the shock absorber, but do not lift the vehicle. This jack will be used to control the suspension position throughout the procedure.
2. 2

   Disconnect the lower shock absorber mount
   Locate the lower shock absorber mounting bolt at the rear axle. Using an 18mm socket and wrench, remove the lower shock mounting bolt. Support the shock absorber to prevent it from dropping. Push the shock absorber up and out of the way or secure with wire to the frame.
   ⚠The shock absorber may be under slight tension. Control the shock as the bolt is removed to prevent it from dropping suddenly.
3. 3

   Lower the rear axle to relieve spring tension
   Slowly and carefully lower the floor jack supporting the rear axle. Lower it just enough to create clearance between the upper spring seat and the coil spring, but maintain control. The axle will drop several inches. Watch for brake lines and ABS wiring that may become taut.
   ⚠️Lower the jack slowly and in a controlled manner. Do not allow the axle to drop suddenly. Ensure brake lines, ABS sensors, and wiring harnesses have adequate slack and are not being stretched or damaged.
4. 4

   Install the coil spring compressor
   With the spring tension relieved, install a heavy-duty coil spring compressor according to the manufacturer's instructions. Install the compressor hooks on opposite sides of the spring (180 degrees apart) and ensure they are fully engaged with the coil spring. Tighten the compressor evenly and alternately, compressing the spring enough to completely relieve any remaining tension between the spring seats.
   ⚠️Ensure spring compressor hooks are fully seated in the coils and cannot slip. Use only compressors rated for truck coil springs. Compress evenly by alternating sides to prevent spring from cocking or binding.
5. 5

   Remove the coil spring
   With the spring fully compressed and no tension on the seats, carefully remove the coil spring from between the upper and lower spring seats. Note the orientation of the upper and lower spring isolators (rubber pads). Remove the spring with the compressor still installed and set aside in a safe location away from the work area.
   ⚠️Keep hands and body clear of the compressed spring path. Even compressed, the spring contains significant stored energy.
6. 6

   Inspect and prepare spring seats and isolators
   Inspect the upper and lower spring seats on the frame and axle for rust, damage, or debris. Clean with a wire brush if necessary. Remove the old spring isolators (rubber pads) from the old spring and inspect for cracks, deterioration, or compression damage. Replace isolators if they show any wear. Inspect the new spring to confirm it matches the old spring dimensions and part number.
7. 7

   Install isolators on new spring
   Install the lower spring isolator on the bottom coil of the new spring, ensuring it is properly seated. Install the upper spring isolator on the top coil. Verify the isolators are positioned correctly and match the orientation of the original installation.
8. 8

   Compress and install the new coil spring
   Install the coil spring compressor on the new spring in the same manner as removal, with hooks 180 degrees apart and fully engaged. Compress the spring evenly until it is compressed to approximately the same length as the old spring was when removed. Carefully position the compressed spring between the upper and lower spring seats, ensuring the isolators contact the seats properly and the spring end tags are in the correct position relative to the mounting points.
   ⚠️Ensure the spring is properly oriented with spring end tags in the correct position. Improper orientation can cause spring failure or handling problems.
9. 9

   Raise axle and seat the spring
   Slowly raise the floor jack under the rear axle, guiding the spring into position. As the axle rises, ensure the spring remains properly seated in both upper and lower spring seats. Continue raising until the spring is fully compressed between the seats and bearing the suspension load.
   ⚠Watch the spring carefully as the axle is raised. Stop immediately if the spring begins to shift out of position. The spring must be centered in both seats.
10. 10

    Remove the spring compressor
    With the axle supporting the spring and the spring fully seated, carefully and evenly loosen the spring compressor. Alternate between sides to release tension evenly. Once all tension is released from the compressor, remove the compressor tool completely. Verify the spring is properly seated and the isolators are in the correct position.
    ⚠️Ensure the spring is fully seated and supporting the suspension load before removing the compressor. If the spring is not seated, do not remove the compressor.
11. 11

    Reconnect the lower shock absorber
    Position the shock absorber back into the lower mounting bracket. Install the lower shock mounting bolt and tighten by hand. Using an 18mm socket and torque wrench, torque the lower shock bolt to specification. Reference the Strut Bolts specification from the torque database.
    Torque spec

    Strut Bolts133 Nm (98 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Install wheels and lower vehicle
    Install the rear wheel and thread the lug nuts by hand. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern with a torque wrench. Lower the vehicle carefully from the jack stands using the floor jack, then remove the jack stands. Lower the vehicle completely to the ground.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Final torque verification
    With the vehicle on the ground and suspension at normal ride height, perform a final verification of all fasteners. Re-torque the wheel lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure proper seating. Rock the vehicle side to side several times to settle the suspension, then verify the shock mounting bolt torque.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. If replacing both rear springs, repeat the entire procedure for the opposite side
2. Ensure all tools and equipment are removed from under the vehicle
3. Verify no brake lines, ABS wiring, or other components are pinched or damaged
4. Check that all fasteners have been properly torqued

Verification

• Test drive the vehicle in a safe area at low speed, listening for any unusual noises or clunks from the rear suspension
• Verify the vehicle sits level side-to-side with no sagging
• Check ride quality over bumps - the new spring should provide firm, controlled support
• Inspect under the vehicle after the first 50-100 miles to verify all fasteners remain tight and no components have shifted
• Have a professional alignment check performed if the vehicle pulls to one side or shows uneven tire wear

More procedures for this vehicle