Control Arm: Service and Repair

The content of this article reflects the changes called out by TSB - 02-03-08-006.

REMOVAL PROCEDURE
^ Tools Required:
- J 38892 Ball Joint Separator

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. If a suspension contact hoist is used:





^ Place the jack stand under the crossmember (1).
^ Lower the vehicle slightly until the weight of the vehicle rests on the crossmember. Do not rest on the control arms.
3. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies.





4. Remove the nut (4) attaching the stabilizer link to the stabilizer shaft (3).





5. Remove the ball joint (3), cotter pin (1), and nut (4).

NOTICE: Care must be exercised to prevent the drive axle joints from being over-extended. When either end of the shaft is disconnected, over-extension of the joint could result in separation of the internal components and possible joint failure. Drive axle joint protectors should be used any time service is performed on or near drive axles. Failure to observe this can result in interior joint or boot damage, and possible joint failure.

6. Use the J 38892 in order to remove the ball joint from the knuckle.
7. Remove the bolts (2 and 4) attaching the control arm (3) to the crossmember (1).

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE





1. Install the control arm (3) into position.
2. Loosely install bolts (2 and 4) attaching the control arm (3) to the cross member (1).





3. Install the ball joint (3) into the steering knuckle (2). Loosely install the nut (4).

NOTICE: Always use the correct fastener in the proper location. When you replace a fastener, use ONLY the exact part number for that application. The manufacturer will call out those fasteners that require a replacement after removal. The manufacturer will also call out the fasteners that require thread lockers or thread sealant. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, do not use supplemental coatings (paints, greases, or other corrosion inhibitors) on threaded fasteners or fastener joint interfaces. Generally, such coatings adversely affect the fastener torque and joint clamping force, and may damage the fastener. When you install fasteners, use the correct tightening sequence and specifications. Following these instructions can help you avoid damage to parts and systems.

Important: Do not loosen the nut at any time during installation.

4. Install the nut (4) attaching the ball joint to the steering knuckle.

Tighten
Tighten to 55 Nm (41 ft. lbs.) minimum - 65 Nm (50 ft. lbs.) maximum.

5. Install the cotter pin (1).
6. Slightly raise the vehicle.
7. Remove the jack stands from under the crossmember.
8. Install the tire and the wheel assembly.





9. Tighten the control arm attaching bolt (front bushing) (4) with the vehicle at curb height.

Tighten
Tighten to 100 Nm (74 ft. lbs.) plus a 90° rotation.

10. Tighten the control arm attaching bolt (rear vertical bushing) (2).

Tighten
Tighten to 170 Nm (125 ft. lbs.).

11. Check the front wheel alignment.