Shock disaster

[03WIExplorerLtd]

Ugh.

1. New sway bar link broke. It was Motorcraft. Moog has superior nut and bolt design vs Fords that requires two tools to loosen or tighten. Put the old link on, its in ok shape.
2. Shocktop nut didn't want to deform much. New motorcraft shocks. I couldn't get a good measurement of torque from the torque wrench. I put impact on it and it just spun.... I tried it loaded with jack under control arm, unloaded and with wheels on the ground (loaded). How do I tell its tight enough?

I put the wheel back on and stripped a lig nut. Not doing other side, I will pay someone.

 

[onestout]

What year is the EX? If you struggle with lug nuts I agree that you should have someone else change out your struts and sway bar end links.

 

[Mlarv5]

Always start a nut or bolt before running it on. To start them it is pretty easy, turn it backwards until you feel it start, then turn it the correct way. I have never had a stripped screw nut or bolt since I started doing this.

Not sure of the other problems

 

[peterk9]

What year is the EX? ......

According to the profile in the margin, it's a 2011 Base.

Peter

 

[onestout]

I can't see any of that when viewing on my phone, thanks.

 

[KayGee]

I can't see any of that when viewing on my phone, thanks.

turn it sideways/landscape.