Control Arm: Service and Repair

Lower Arm









Removal

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.

1. Remove the wheel and tire.

NOTICE: Use care when releasing the lower arm and wheel knuckle into the resting position or damage to the ball joint seal may occur.

NOTICE: Tighten suspension bushing fasteners with the weight of the vehicle resting on the wheel and tires or incorrect clamp load and bushing damage may occur.

NOTICE: Do not use a prying device or separator fork between the ball joint and the wheel knuckle. Damage to the ball joint or ball joint seal may result. Only use the pry bar by inserting it into the lower control arm body opening.

2. Remove and discard the ball joint nut and bolt. Using a pry bar, separate the ball joint stud from the wheel knuckle.

3. Remove and discard the forward and rear lower arm bolts and remove the lower arm.

Installation

NOTE: Do not tighten the forward and rear lower arm bolts at this time.

1. Position the lower arm and loosely install the new forward and rear bolts.

2. Insert the ball joint stud into the wheel knuckle and install the new ball joint bolt and nut.
- Tighten to 52 Nm (38 lb-ft).


3. Install the wheel and tire.

4. Lower the hoist so the weight of the vehicle is resting on the wheels and tires.

5. Tighten the new forward and rear lower arm bolts in 2 stages
- Stage 1: Tighten to 63 Nm (46 lb-ft).

- Stage 2: Tighten an additional 180 degrees.


6. Check and, if necessary, align the front end.