How do you replace the grill on a 2000 Ford Windstar?

Answer 1

do not attempt to replace the grille yourself. it is a major project involving the removal of the complete bumper assembly. instead spend a little money and take the van to a body shop and have it done professionally.

victor

head bodyman at JJ auto collision

I disagree. I just replaced the front grille on my 2000 Ford Windstar without having to remove any other major assembly. Here is how I did it:

1. Remove the flexible horizontal cover above the radiator housing (it has information decals stuck to it) by popping out its plastic retainers (keep them separated in a cup).

2. Remove the plastic retainers across the top of the old grille (keep these separated in another cup).

3. While pulling the old grille forward, use a utility knife to trim off the left and right plastic grille alignment tabs that poke through 1"-long slots on each end of the grille. This will allow you to pull the grille away from the radiator enough to reach the screws along the bottom of the grille.

4. Use a 4" long (or shorter) 5/16" box-end wrench to unscrew the 9 screws that protrude upward through the grille. The grille attaches to a very flexible (rubbery) section of the front bumper that freely flexes. Use fingertips from one hand to keep the wrench on the hex head screw and patiently unscrew with the other hand.

5. Lift out the old grille, clean off the bumper, transfer the FORD emblem to the new grille, and set the new assembly into place.

6. It is not necessary to reinstall all 9 retaining screws. Start at one end and install every other one and you will be fine.

7. After all retaining screws are installed, use a long/large screwdriver as an aid to align the 1"-long slots with the alignment tabs of the new grille, hold the grille in place by pressing it toward the motor, and then reinstall the plastic retainers along its top edge.

8. Reinstall the horizontal cover -- and you are done -- assuming you have already transferred the FORD emblem from the old grille to the new one.

This worked out great but its easier if you use a 1/4 inch drive ratchet 4" long with a short socket 5/16"on the 9 retaining screws its faster and save on your patients. Thanks...