How To Remove & Install 2001-2004 Ford Lightning Grille

Replace your missing or damaged grille on your 2001-2004 SVT Lightning with our new replacement upper grille! The grille also comes in a thin black painted finish. However, we recommend prepping and painting this grille using our exclusive 2001-2004 Lightning Grille Paint for that signature factory look.

Tools Needed

• Ratchet & Socket Set
• Screwdriver & Drill With Screwdriver Bits
• Powell Nuts
• Plastic Pry Tool

Additional Parts

• 1999-2004 OEM Ford SVT Lightning Grille Emblem
• Lightning Grille Paint Kit (Available Only at LMR.com)

1. Pop the hood, unclip the hood prop and remove it from the truck. Loosen and remove the 8mm bolt securing the intercooler reservoir and radiator cover to the fan shroud (Non-Lightning models will have a plastic retainer in the location).



2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen and remove all radiator cover retainers (use a plastic pry tool to get underneath the retainers for easier removal).



3. Lift and remove the radiator cover from the truck.



4. Loosen and remove the (6) Philips head screws across the grille shell.



5. Loosen and remove the small Phillips head screws securing the side marker to the header panel. (Repeat on other side)



6. Slide the side marker forward, disconnect the electrical connection and remove it from the truck. (Repeat on the other side)




7. Loosen and remove the (2) Phillips head screws behind the side markers. They are also securing the grille shell to the header panel. (Repeat on the other side)



8. Under the grille shell, remove the (4) push pins that secure the grille filler with a plastic pry tool. We recommend placing a microfiber cloth over the bumper to protect it. (Repeat on the other side)



9. Depress the (2) lower metal clips on the back of the grille shell with a plastic pry tool. You can now remove the grille shell from the truck.





10. Place your grille shell face on a flat working surface with a towel underneath.



11. Carefully release the plastic tabs connecting the grille shell to the grille. Use a plastic pry tool or screwdriver to do so.




12. Remove the grille from the shell when it feels ready to come out.

Grille Installation

If you're needing to replace a damaged grille and install it with a brand new OEM-style design, check out our 01-04 SVT Lightning Grille, now available on our site!

1. Once you have taken 24 hours to allow your grille to dry from paint, install the new emblem. Use some powell nuts to secure to the grille. If you already have an emblem installed, skip this process.



2. Set the grille shell face down on a towel. Align the grille with the tabs and slowly engage with all the tabs by pushing down.




3. To reinstall the grille and grille shell, reverse the removal process and you're good to go.

We hope this article has helped you understand how to remove and install your 1999-2004 Ford SVT Lightning Grille. Be sure to check out our YouTube channel for more installation and removal videos when working on your Gen 1 & 2 Ford SVT Lightning .