1. Safety First:
* Park on a level surface: Engage the parking brake firmly.
* Support the vehicle: Use jack stands securely placed under the frame rails, *never* rely solely on a jack. The rear end needs to be safely and stably supported.
* Wear safety glasses: Things can fall.
* Have the right tools: You'll need a jack, jack stands, socket wrench set (likely metric), ratchet, and possibly a breaker bar for stubborn bolts. Penetrating oil might also be helpful.
2. Accessing the Shocks:
* Remove the wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the vehicle. Remove the wheel completely once the vehicle is safely supported on jack stands.
* Remove the brake caliper: You may need to use a C-clamp or a caliper compression tool to compress the brake caliper piston enough to allow you to remove it. Carefully support the caliper using a bungee cord or wire so it doesn't hang by the brake line.
* Remove the rotor (if necessary): Depending on the design, you might need to remove the rotor to fully access the shock. There will likely be a single bolt holding it in place.
* Locate the shock mount: The top of the shock is usually mounted to the vehicle's frame or body, while the bottom is attached to the axle or control arm.
* Disconnect the shock absorber: This usually involves removing nuts and bolts at both the top and bottom mounting points. These bolts can be very tight, so penetrating oil and a breaker bar might be needed. Pay attention to the orientation of any washers or bushings; you'll need to put them back in the same way.
* Remove the shock: Once the bolts are removed, carefully lower the shock absorber out from its mounting points.
3. Installing the New Shocks:
* The installation is essentially the reverse of removal. Make sure to properly align all components and tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Important Considerations:
* Hybrid Models: Hybrid versions might have slightly different access points or components due to the additional hybrid system parts. Check your specific model's repair manual.
* Rust: If you're working on an older vehicle, rust can be a significant problem, making bolts extremely difficult to remove. Penetrating oil is your friend here. You might need to use heat (carefully!) to loosen stubborn bolts.
* Torque Specifications: Consult your repair manual for the correct torque specifications for all bolts. Over-tightening can damage components.
* Compressed Air: Some people use compressed air to help push the piston back into the caliper, but this is not always necessary and can be dangerous if done improperly.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working on your vehicle, consider taking it to a qualified mechanic.
This is a general guide. Without a specific repair manual for your 2005 Ford Escape, it's difficult to give precise instructions. Always refer to a repair manual for your specific vehicle's model and trim level for detailed and safe instructions. Incorrectly working on your vehicle can be dangerous and lead to further damage.
