Disassembly

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(Click On Images to Enlarge)

 
The reproduction shock towers are a heavy gauge stamping and well finished.  The only problem is an incorrect angle on the right side shell.  This is fixable but results in a slightly low spring seat.  A new radiator support and right side fender apron were also ordered.  The reproduction radiator support was  junk so it was exchanged for the Ford part.
This job requires a complete disassembly of the front end.  Getting to the towers is probably the most labor intensive part.  Everything is out of the way so the replacement should be much easier now.
The left tower is in sad shape.  Stop-drilling the A-arm mounting hole cracks several years ago didn't help for long.  Two major stress fractures have also developed.
The inner fender shows that the whole engine compartment is in need of some attention.

 

The inner side of the left tower gives another view of the fractures.  The shell is also pulling away from the vertical reinforcing.  It's easy to see why the car won't hold an alignment. Details on the Shock Tower page.
The right side is in a little better condition.  A few small cracks are radiating from the A-arm mounting holes. Details on the Apron page.
Removing the battery tray and pressure washing the engine compartment showed that corrosion in this area is worse than expected.  Since we're so close, the radiator support and right front apron will be replaced as well.  Details on the Apron page.
 
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Shock Tower
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Apron
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Reassembly
 
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