How to replace lower control arm?

[kickinindian]

im pretty much a greenhorn when it comes to major car repair but i need to do this by myself due to lack of cash. when my truck rolled down the hill i didnt notice until i finished everything else (body work and such) that my left lower control arm is majorly bent and totally shot, i already ordered the part. soooo has anyone done this or have a know a how to thread? just something to point me in the right direction any help will be apreciated

[PEZi]

You might as well do some other maintenance while you're in there. Unless you replace the control arm bushing on the other side as well, things will be a little odd. So, since everything will be apart... I suggest all new front bushings.

This thread from Rev might help a little, but it doesn't have a step by step process. It does have extremely useful pics, though. Check it out here.

It would also help greatly to have an FSM or Haynes/Chiltons manual to follow. Those give the actual detailed process.

[Rev_D21]

It's not terrible to do. Of course you will need to remove the torsion bar, tension rod, sway bar link, shock absorber and knuckle/spindle. Once those are out of the way the control arm is held on by one 22mm bolt. It's all dirty work but nothing too crazy. I am working on a write-up but I am slow. Feel free to pick my brain if you need to.

[kickinindian]

ok thanks ill keep you updated as soon as the damn part gets here.... btw should i get energy suspension bushings or if i wanna keep it cheap get moog from o'reillys...

[PEZi]

Moog is fine. Energy suspension is more performance than street use.

[kickinindian]

i plan on getting a 3" suspension lift pretty soon as well but it dosent come with bushings thats why im kinda torn

[Rev_D21]

Either will do. ES will give you much more road feedback than rubber bushings. If you are lifting and putting on beefier tires then the ride will be OK with ES.

[kickinindian]

yea not too worried bout that kinda expected just wanna see what would last better

[Rev_D21]

I got 16 years out of my old OEM rubber bushings. They were shot. I'll let you know how the ES bushings hold up in 16 years.

[kickinindian]

okay im holdin you to it!!