Ride Height Measurement

For information on Ford Color Coded Illustrations, refer to OEM COLOR CODING

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment 

Check 

1. Before measuring ride height check:
   • Tires are inflated to the correct pressure.
   • Vehicle should have a full tank of fuel.
   • All fluids at proper levels.
   • No cargo inside the cab or bed.
   • Inspect for aftermarket equipment. Check for aftermarket changes to the steering, suspension, wheel and tire components (such as competition, heavy duty, etc.).

   Ride Height Measurement -- Front 

2. 1. Ride height = 3 - 2
   2. Measure the distance between the flat level surface and the center of the rearward lower arm bolt. (measurement - 3). Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge
   3. Measure the distance between the flat level surface and the lowest point on the wheel knuckle. (measurement - 2). Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

3. Position a suitable surface gauge (such as Starrett 57D Surface Gauge), on a flat, level surface and adjust the gauge's arm until the scriber point is located in the center of the lower arm rearward bolt.
   • Lock the surface gauge in this position.. Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

4. Position the surface gauge on the same flat, level surface as used in Step 1, adjust the gauge's arm until the scriber point is located on the lowest point on the wheel knuckle.
   • Lock the surface gauge in this position.. Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

5. With the surface gauge positioned on a flat, level surface, record the measurement of the surface gauge position (measurement 2) and (measurement 3).. Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

6. Subtract measurement 2 from measurement 3 to obtain the front ride height.

   Ride Height Measurement -- Rear 

7. NOTE: Make sure that the vehicle is positioned on a flat, level surface, transmission in the PARK position and the parking brake OFF.
   1. Ride height = 3 - 2
   2. Measurement 3
   3. Measurement 2. Use the General Equipment: Surface Gauge

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

8. Measure the distance between the flat level surface and the center of the lower arm rearward bolt (measurement 3).
9. Measure the distance between the flat level surface and the center of the shock absorber lower bolt (rearward side) (measurement 2).
10. Subtract measurement 2 from measurement 3 to obtain the front ride height.