Ok guys, While fixing the issue with my strut mount, I noticed that my lower control arm bushings are worn and causing a nasty rattle also. After talking to some friends about just replacing the bushings, It would be just as easy to replace the lower control arm. Has anyone done this? Nothing is rusted thank god ( its never really been offroad ) and I have a garage full of tools to use. I am pretty good at mechanical work, but have never talked a job like this before. While Im in there, Im going to go ahead and replace the upper ball joint also. Does any one know of a thread or step by step guide how to remove the lower control arm? The upper ball joint should be pretty easy with a press, just need help with lower side. Thanks a lot for helping out!

 

You used a press for upper ball. I thought the entire arm had to be replaced .. I'm asking because mine need to be replace also

 

According to my Chiltons manual, yes upper ball joint is not serviceable. You have to replace upper CA as an assembly.

 

The upper ball joint is can be replaced, just has to be pressed out. I was asking about replacing the lower control arm. The bushings are worn out and its easier just to replace the whole LCA than just the bushings since they have to be heated and pressed on.

 

Piece of cake to change... go ahead.

remove the sway bar bolt, lower balljoint, strut bolt, and the 2 LCA bolt.
Be sure to have it aligned after

 

I replaced all that stuff a month ago and i had issues with getting the bolts out of the lower control arm. They were seized in the bushing since the metal bolt is surrounded by a metal sleeve inside the rubber bushing...stupid design. I had to order 2 new cam bolts from BDS where I got my lift.

Anyways, i replaced the whole LCA's with MOOG ones that have the greaseable lower ball joints. I also replaced the UCA's with MOOG greaseable ones as well. I really dont think the uppers can be changed other than getting a whole new arm. They are only 30 bucks anyways unless you want the MOOG ones which are 60something apiece from Rock Auto. The lower ball joints can be pressed out and replaced for 20 bucks apiece which is better than the 100+ you will pay for a new LCA. But like you, I needed new bushings since i sorta fried them getting the control arms off to install my lift back in May. Good luck man. Hope you dont have issues getting the LCA bolts out like I did.

 

Also, if you need instructions on how to get the LCA's off you can look at any of the suspension lift kit manufacturers instructions as they give pictures and good step by step directions. Rough Country has the best as they also tell you what size sockets to use. Just an alternate option for you to look at.

 

Mine are seized to the bushing as well. What a pain in the *****! You ordered new bolts from BDS, what does that stand for? I need new bolts too.

 

i think you got them wrong, the lower BJ are pressed in, uppers are a whole arm.. and as cheap as the moog's are on rockauto i wouldn't bother even trying to press the uppers out

i also have some lower control arm bushing going bad, while your in there mine as well add a camber adjustment kit for alingments

 

This thread is from 2012... you would've been better off sending 06F150CFCT a private message