Focus on Ford Suspension with Febi

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11 Sep 2019

Category: Articles

The Ford Focus remains a popular model for motorists across Britain despite being reported to be one of the most likely vehicles to visit workshops for repair. Taking this on board, febi has identified some wear items that should not be ignored when repairing the suspension system for the Ford Focus.

EYE ON THE FRONT SUSPENSION

One of the most common wear items on the MK2 model is the track control arm bush. This component is available as part of the complete arm, or as a separate part with new fixing bolts. febi offers the latter as an economic option for motorists because, in most cases, the control arm is a serviceable item.

Steps to a proper control arm bush repair

1. Correct alignment
   The alignment of the new bush is very important during replacement. Ensuring that the bush is aligned correctly on the shaft of the suspension arm helps improve its service lifespan and for its correct operation.
2. Remove the old bush carefully
   The old bush can be pressed off, or carefully cut off, with suitable equipment to avoid damaging the shaft that the bush is mounted on.
3. Keep things clean
   Once the worn bush is removed, clean the shaft before fitting on the new bush – there is a special tool available to maintain proper alignment while the new bush is pressed into position. Following this, the repaired arm can be refitted to the vehicle.

DID YOU KNOW?
febi’s track control arm bush (febi 32418A) has applications for several other Ford, Mazda and Volvo models. BONUS!

SIGHT ON THE REAR SUSPENSION

The Ford Focus features a control blade trailing arm multilink suspension system. Its compact design allows maximum use of space for luggage capacity and gives excellent handling.

The thin trailing arm handles, fore and aft wheel location, brake-torque reaction, as well as three other links are needed to fully locate the wheel. These components have bushes that are prone to wear.

The trailing arm bush (febi 34249A), which is replaceable like the front control arm, needs to be aligned correctly during installation; otherwise the rubber will over twist and shorten the life of the bush.

Common repair issues & solutions

The track control arm, which is located between the cross member and the knuckle, is prone to stress fractures which can lead to failure after long service. When this arm is removed to gain access to other components such as the road spring, or when it needs replacing, the fixing bolts are prone to corrosion.

This leads to the bolts shearing during removal or being seized to the bush inner sleeve. Therefore, it may be necessary to cut them off in order to remove the arm.

The inner bolt, which is an eccentric bolt, is for camber adjustment, and it must turn freely if it is to be adjusted. It is recommended that all bolt fixings are tightened only when the vehicle’s suspension is under load, not free hanging, as this puts unnecessary strain on the bushes and can lead to them being tightened in the incorrect position.

IMPORTANT!
When all suspension repairs are carried out a full wheel alignment is recommended to ensure the vehicles correct handling.

CONVENIENCE AVAILABLE FROM FPS

Many febi suspension components are available as a ProKit, providing all necessary fixings to carry out a repair saving the installer time and money. Your local FPS representative is ever ready to assist you with your enquiries.