For this video, we will show how to replace the lower steering shaft, which often causes binding in the steering, on this 2003 Lincoln Town Car. The steps are very similar on other 2003 and up Panther chassis cars such as the Ford Crown Victoria, and Mercury Grand Marquis. The 2003/2004 Marauder also uses this part – the steps should be the same, however with the DOHC motor, access may be varied slightly.
Also when done we found the intermediate steering shaft was contributing slightly to the binding, and will be replacing that in an upcoming video. Since you may wish to do both, we’ve including a link to that part below, however this video does not show any of the steps in removing. (Update: The video for the upper intermediate shaft is now live here – )
Finally, remember to utilize your service manual for the full steps to do this, or seek via an online resource such as AllDataDIY.com
RECALL:
Ford has issued a recall for bearing separation caused by binding lower steering shafts on 2005-2011 Crown Vics, Grand Marquis, and Town Cars.
It is odd that 2003 and 2004 model years at not included, as they include the same rack and pinion / steering linkage setup. Even more so, the part numbers for the lower and upper intermediate shafts are the same from 2003 to 2005+ cars. So what is different that they didn’t get into the recall?
If your car is a 2005 or above though, you can leverage the recall, save $$$ and get this job done at a dealer for free.
Full Recall info:
Now if you need to still do this job, here are the parts links…
Tools and Parts Links for this Job:
Note: Amazon links below are through their affiliate program for Vortex Garage, direct links to Amazon. All other links are direct unless noted.
Steering Wheel Holder Tool:
Steering Bolts:
Note! The part numbers for these are very hard to find and I lost the original packaging/receipts. You should call your local parts department to CONFIRM these are correct! The parts diagrams do not show these bolts on most parts sites. Additionally the bolts appear to be used for other items in Ford vehicles, and part numbers have changed. As a result, I cannot guarantee these are correct!
If you can confirm the part numbers, please COMMENT or send me a note! I will happily update!
—-
2 Bolts – they are different so here’s the part number data::::::
Bolt – with 13mm socket head:
(Connects upper intermediate and lower intermediate shafts)
W713065-S439 – $2.91
(WARNING! – Tasca now says this part doesn’t fit the car, need to validate with them or your local parts dept! – But this is the part number in the recall advisory)
(I would also use loctite on this part as extra security)
Bolt that attaches to the rack has a 10mm head and I believe this is the right part number:
Upper Bolt – with 10mm socket head:
N808349-S100 (Appears replaced by W710821-S306) – $1.56
(Same applies as above, parts houses say it doesn’t fit so may need to validate with your local parts dept)
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Steering Shafts:
Lower Steering Shaft (5W1Z-3B676-A) – 2003-2011 Panther Chassis (Check parts fit reference on site):
Intermedia Steering Shaft (3W1Z-3B676-AB) – 2003-2004 ONLY! (Check parts fit reference on site) – NOT INSTALLED in this video, but sharing in case needed:
(Future video with this part installation coming soon.)
Other Tools Used:
Gearwrench 57pc 3/8 Drive SAE and Metric Socket Set:
Gearwrench 4pc Ratchet Set – 120xp Flex Head, 1/4, 3/8, 1/2:
ARES 70330-9-Piece Wobble Extension Set:
Vortex Garage doesn’t endorse any set brands of tools or parts, but will share links for items we use or would purchase. And we’ll also happily share the honest good or bad experiences with them.
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What color paint is the car?
Had Lincoln dealer diagnose & replace my lower left steering shaft on my 2006 town car and now my horn doesn't work and my key fob doesn't beep when I lock. Did is get disconnected or maybe just a fuse?
Don't extensions affect the torque accuracy?
That’s exactly what happened to my 04 town car, i replaced my power steering pump for nothing 😑,
Muy buen consejo grasias
What color paint is on that Lincoln?
I ordered the w713065-s439 bolts from Ford and they don't fit my new dorman shaft.
That’s crazy this is the exact year of my town car Cartier
Replaced both…lower n intermediate…big difference
where did you get the 10mm swivel socket from. i need that one
I’m not having this exact problem but my steering pulls to the left so I have to keep the steering wheel “over corrected” to the right and it also won’t return to center. Any idea what that could be??? I’ve got an appointment with my mechanic but it’s in 2 months. Ugh
Did they include the bolts with the shaft you ordered? Thanks for the helpful video
Hello, I hope you see this comment.
I have a 2003 Lincoln Town Car. When I am driving, I feel a shake in the car. At slower speeds, the shake is more prominent, almost like i am shaking back and forth in the vehicle. At higher speeds, it does not wobble as much but it is still noticeable. I am nervous to take this car back on the road again other than to get around town. I had the rear ball joints replaced 2 years ago.
What do you recommend?
Thank you and great video.
My 06 town car steering is hard , how to tell if it’s the shaft or power steering pump
Nice video. I did the same on my 2010 (which does NOT have variable-assist power steering), but the weird thing is that the steering did not improve. To be clear, there was no rust, rather some sort of component just may be acting up: the steering has no rough spots, but it simply feels somewhat lazy. Power steering fluid was flushed and the pump sounds normal. Could the pump be putting out too little pressure? In the meantime, I am thinking of doing what you've done and also replacing that upper steering shaft that goes through the fire wall.
I need to do this ASAP my steering use to flow, talking one pinky on the wheel with full control. now I Gottah put a little muscle into it lol.
My steering on my 01 gets slack in it after turning the wheel sharp or going down a slanted road making me turn more to keep it steady… alignment was down and I was told the suspension parts are firm…what could it be?
Thanks so much!
Nice video, I have the same year Town Car, what did you use and how did you lubricate the U joint? Thank you.
Sucks that Ford only recalled the 05+ Panthers. My 05 P71 crown vic was covered, but my 04 Grand Marquis wasn't, so I have to replace that one myself.
Also, the Marauder has the P71 police package suspension.
Thanks for the easy to follow video!
Awesome. Looking fwd to more panther content. Subbed!