Service tool Lever, wheel knuckle 204-159

[RICHARD MANSFIELD2]

Hi,
I will soon be replacing my front struts/shocks. According to the service manual this tool is needed. Do I actually need it or is there an alternative?

Regards Richard.

 

[caprixpack]

I didn't use a knuckle spreader when doing mine. I took the pinch bolt out the used a piece if wood and a mallet to knock the knuckle off. I cleaned up the surfaces where the new strut fits then used a bottle jack to push the knuckle back into place with the occasional tap from a rubber mallet. There are much cheaper and easier to obtain versions of the ford tool though.
https://amzn.eu/d/cL6Dmfl

 

[TomR]

You can spread the strut clamp a bit with a chisel before trying the knuckle on reassembly.