Arm, Lower Control: Removal
NOTE:
Before proceeding, refer to FRONT, WARNING .
- Remove front fascia. Refer to FASCIA, FRONT, REMOVAL .
- Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .
- Remove the wheel mounting bolts (1), then the tire and wheel assembly.
- Remove the lower stabilizer link nut (4) on each side of the vehicle by holding each link stud (3) stationary. Separate the link stud (3) from the stabilizer bar (2). Position the stabilizer bar (2) and link (1) out of the way to provide enough movement to separate the ball joint from the knuckle in the next few steps.
- Remove the nut (2) and pinch bolt clamping the ball joint (1) stud to the knuckle (3).CAUTION:
Upon removing the knuckle from the ball joint stud, do not pull outward on the knuckle. Pulling the knuckle outward at this point can separate the inner C/V joint on the halfshaft thus damaging it.
CAUTION:Use care when separating the ball joint stud (2) from the knuckle (3), so the ball joint seal does not get cut or compressed excessively.
- Using (special tool #9360, Remover, Ball Joint) (1), separate the ball joint stud (2) from the knuckle (3).
- Remove the belly pan. Refer to BELLY PAN, REMOVAL .
- Remove four bolts (1) and the tunnel support brace (2).
- Remove two mounting bolts (1) and remove vertical brace from vehicle.
- Remove front fascia support beams (1).
- Remove the rear bolt (1) and nut (not shown) attaching the lower control arm to the front suspension crossmember. The nut and bolt are one-time use and must be discarded after removal.
- Remove the front bolt (1) attaching the lower control arm (2) to the front suspension crossmember. The bolt is one-time use and must be discarded after removal.
- Remove the lower control arm (2) from the crossmember (1).