Rear suspension interchange

[lynda]

The rear suspension is shot in my 2008 Edge SEL. Does anyone know what years interchange? I can buy a 2011 rear cradle, complete, in excellent condition, but don't know if it all bolts up. Anybody?

[enigma-2]

I don't believe they will fit. Ford performed a major mid-cycle facelift for the 2011 model year, transitioning from "Generation 1", which ran from 2007 through 2010. To "Generation 1.5", 2011 through 2014.

 

Because of this generational split, individual parts can (and will) vary widely.

 

What's known not to fit. Rear Shock Absorbers. This would be a main point of incompatibility. The lower mounting bolt on the 2011 Ford Edge is much thicker than the bolt used on the 2008 model. The mounting hardware and sleeve dimensions are completely different, meaning the 2011 shock eyelet will not bolt safely or securely to a 2008 lower control arm.

 

Those areas that are known to be compatible. The rear coil springs share the same physical dimensions and will fit the 2007–2014 models. (But keep in mind that the spring rates vary depending on whether the donor car had a standard suspension or the 20-inch wheel "Sport" suspension package.)

 

Also, some upper and lower trailing links share the same geometric dimensions, but because bushing sleeves and bolt diameters changed during the 2011 refresh, you would run into a problem here. 

 

It would be best if you obtained 2008 year-specific rear end parts. You might get the 2011 parts to fit, and you may not (at least its unlikely to be plug and play. (I wouldn't attempt it unless I was absolutely certain.