Control Arm: Service and Repair

REMOVAL/INSTALLATION

CAUTION: Performing the following procedures without first removing the ABS wheel-speed sensor may possibly cause an open circuit in the harness if it is pulled by mistake. Before performing the following procedures, remove the ABS wheel-speed sensor (axle side) and fix it to an appropriate place where the sensor will not be pulled by mistake while serviceing the vehicle.

1. Remove in the order indicated in the illustration, noting the following steps.
2. Install in the reverse order of removal indicated in the illustration, noting the following steps.
3. Adjust the front wheel alignment.

Dust Boot Removal Note (5)





- Remove the dust boot by using a chisel.

CAUTION: Do not damage the ball joint.

Lower Arm Bushing (Front) Removal Note (6)
1. Cut away the projecting rubber of the lower arm bushing.





2. Set the Special Service Tool (SST) to the lower arm and remove the bushing.

Lower Arm Bushing (Front) Installation Note (6)
1. Apply soapy water to the new bushing.





2. Pull the new bushing into the lower arm by using the SST.

Dust Boot Installation Note (5)
1. Wipe the grease off the ball stud.
2. Fill the inside of the new dust boot with grease.





3. Press the boot onto the ball joint by using the SST.
4. Wipe away the excess grease.

INSPECTION
1. Inspect ball joint body for damage and boot for cracks, and replace as necessary.
2. inspect the ball joint for looseness and damage and replace as necessary.





3. Measure the ball joint preload. Shake and rotate the ball joint stud 5 times before measuring the preload. Attach the SST to the ball stud, and measure the preload by using a pull scale.

Ball joint preload: 1.0 - 4.9 Nm (8.7 - 43 inch lbs.)
Pull scale reading: 10 - 49 N (2.2 - 11 lbs.)