Ford IFS problems.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Moro Bay, AR
Ford IFS problems.
After putting my 53 through the paces on the Tail of the Dragon last week I started hearing a bumping noise while turning a sharp corner or braking hard. Finally had time check it out and it seems that the upper control arm on the RH side has slipped. Pried it back out somewhat and tightened the bolt, will call for an appointment with my alignment guy next week. I recall him telling me that this was a common problem with these suspensions, and I have had one do it before on a 89 Town Car. Anyone else who is running a late 80s big Ford IFS ever had this problem? Any ideas to prevent it? I seem to remember my alignment guy using a breaker bar to tighten these bolts before. Guess I'll just have to check them regularly 
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Joined: Jul 2007
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From: I live in Leitchfield, KY
They must not be built to take turns like The Dragon's Tail 
Who would have thought?
I probably should go over and do the Harley bolt tightening stuff on mine too. You know ride a while and then tighten up all the bolts. 
Who would have thought? I probably should go over and do the Harley bolt tightening stuff on mine too. You know ride a while and then tighten up all the bolts.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Moro Bay, AR
You've almost got that right, but it's ride a while, unscrew the loose bolts, add a drop of Loctite and then tighten 
I was always told that Loctite was invented just for Harleys Mine sure seems to require it 
I was always told that Loctite was invented just for Harleys Mine sure seems to require it
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
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From: Littleton, New Hampshire
Not just Fords either. The same thing happened to my Volare just after I had it aligned. I think if the alignment guys don't really crank down on those upper control arm bolts they can work loose...
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From: Waleska, GA
balance
I'd start by getting them re-balanced. Also make sure there's no run-out on the wheels/tires.
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From: I live in Leitchfield, KY
I believe you're right Jeff, I think they do have teeth that are supposed to help hold them in place. Of course the bolts are supposed to be tightened too
I am not sure how deep the teeth are and how much they actually hold.
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2005
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From: Moro Bay, AR
I'll find out about the teeth next Wed when I take it in for alignment. Also made sure the guy would have new bolts for it too. I have to replace the rear bearing in the trans and service it this weekend, so I'm not likely to have much time to miss cruising around in it.
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