I changed the one on my '02 Mercury V8. I don't remember the detail of studs or bolts, but I do remember it only came out one way and one way only. Forward and to the right (pass side) over the crossmember. It only goes back the same way also.
It looks like it can come out the side but it doesn't.
By the way, at the time, rockauto.com had the best price for a new motorcraft compressor.
teamfordparts.com and directfordparts.com (both dealers in las vegas) may have decent pricing also. Shipping is reasonable.
