09 Escape steering 'clunk' u-joint replacement?
 

My 2009 Escape XLT with 2.5 engine has a clunk when turning the steering wheel.

Can anyone slowly and simply walk me through the steps to replace the lower u-joint? I know it involves sliding up the boot inside the cabin and some wrenching under the rig. What allows the steering shaft to telescope? special screw to loosen?

My local parts superstore wants $350 in labor to include a wheel alignment and I know the Dorman part is available for under $100.

Thanks in advance for the assist.

You may be biting off more than you would want to chew here.
If there is not enough clearance to do what you think you need to do , it can become a bigger job than anticipated. Suggest you get another opinion and estimate.

Welcome to the site..

No telescoping column shaft.

Generally, the rear of the subframe is tipped/lowered slightly, steering shaft and gear bolts removed, and the replacement coupling is swapped out from below. If you have the ability to raise and support the rig, and a decent floor jack to lower and support the rear of the subframe, then not a complicated task to do. Steering needs to be locked, so that when the coupling is removed, unrestricted rotation doesn't damage the clock spring. If you have the tools, we can help with illustrations..

I have tools, ramps and a floor jack.

Illustrations of the process would help greatly - thanks

Thanks for the update Randy..!!

Sent you some info..

I replaced the lower u-joint today - success, no more 'CLUNK". Used the Dorman part from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-425-35...ring+connector


I followed this GREAT simple youtube video:


I took off the front wheel for easy straight access to the lower bolt using a 24" extension. MY rubber boot cover plate was fastened by three 10mm nuts, not just the pull-up style on the video..

I will add that I've been living with that nasty CLUNK for over a year now and fully expected the old u-joint to be a mess like the one in the video....it wasn't. It was near pristine to my handling. I couldn't get it to make more than a slight click....but it was indeed the cause of the steering clunk.

Sweat equity and under $75 in the part and about $15 for the 24" extension from Harbor Freight. HUGE savings with DIY vs dealer charge of $350. Same goes for replacing the $20 pair of worn stabilizer links. FordTechMakuloco yotube vid to the rescue there.

Little harsh on the upper bearing and/or the airbag clock spring..

I will report any negative issues should they ever arise from following the youtube vid in the u-joint replacement.

The test ride didn't exhibit any problems but it was just a test ride. If you don't see a follow-up post to today's it means all is well.