2002 Ford Windstar BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Disassembly And Assembly: Gear: Disassembly

NOTE: The steering gear (3504) is serviced as a long rack assembly. Only the front wheel spindle tie-rods (3280) and front suspension steering ball stud dust seals (3332) can be serviced separately.
  1. Install the steering gear into the special tools.
    Fig 1: Installing Steering Gear Into Special Tools
    G03424607Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  2. Clean the exterior of the steering gear with solvent. If necessary, drain any excess power steering fluid.
  3. Inspect the steering gear housing for cracks and other damage. If necessary, install a new steering gear.
  4. Verify the power steering gear input shaft bearing rotates freely. If necessary, install a new steering gear.
  5. Place an alignment mark on the tie-rod ends (3A130), nuts and front wheel spindle tie-rods (3280). Remove the tie-rod ends and nuts.
    Fig 2: Removing Tie-Rod Ends And Nuts
    G03424608Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    6. CAUTION: Use care not to damage the front suspension steering ball stud dust seals. If the front suspension steering ball stud dust seals are damaged, this will allow contamination into the steering gear and cause leakage.
  6. Remove the clamps and the two front suspension steering ball stud dust seals.
    • Discard any clamps that are damaged or excessively corroded.
    • Discard any front suspension steering ball stud dust seals that are damaged.
      Fig 3: Removing Clamps And Front Suspension Steering Ball Stud Dust Seals
      G03424609Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
    7. CAUTION: Place the steering gear at the center position. Use an adjustable wrench on the flat of the rack gear to resist rotation and prevent damage to the steering gear during removal and installation of the front wheel spindle tie-rods.
Factory Service Tools

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsCompare Repair QuoteQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Rather have a pro handle this?

A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.

Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free Quote

No obligation. See pricing before you book.