Iam getting ready to install 2 new complete lower control arms, My question is on the Pin with the bolt, Will i need to lubricate that pin with something to make instalation easier and if so what kinda of lubricant, I know i cant use oil because it will ruin the rubber, Iam looking for something thats safe on rubber.

 

Show me which pin you are referring to.

 

 

I didn't. The old arm came off the link pin with extremely little effort (just some simultaneous twisting & pulling). Likewise for installation.

Passenger side I could've saved some time by not taking the link pin off the subframe, since the arm came right off. Couldn't do the same thing on driver's side since trans was in the way; I just loosened the 4 link pin bolts enough til sliding off the arm cleared the trans.

 

Ahh crap i did not know i would have a interference issue with removing them, I wanted to avoid removing the link pin bolts, but thanks for the heads up

 

I wouldn't lube it.

 

Yeah this was only for driver's side...if you have a manual trans it might be a different story.

Driver's side example showing the trans & the bolts loosened just enough to slide the arm off:



It's just a pain trying to start all those bolts if you completely take the link pin out & a higher chance of cross-threading because you'll probably have the arm attached to the pin (meaning ~10-15 pounds going against gravity).

 

good to know since I will be doing this soon.

 

This reminds me...due to clearance issues with the auto trans, I couldn't get a (27mm?) socket on that nut that secures the control arm onto the link pin; had to use a big adjustable wrench. Keep in mind these were just my experiences & was the first time I had did it - other more experienced people may not have problems.

 

Jesus Hell in a handbasket, This was very easy to do but the hard part was the DAMN Balljoint bolt, it was on there and never comming off, I had to use a air hammer, torch and some other methods but i finally split the nut and peeled it off, that took over 2 hours for a damn bolt, the rest was cake. since it took so long i only got one done today, Next weekend iam doing the drivers side. I cant wait to see what challenges that throws at me.

 

I suggest throwing some PB at the driver's side ball joint nut right now.

 

I'll be doing the same swap soon.... drivers side balljoint is toast. Gonna swap out the control arm for a Nissan OEM one I think.

My garage is not heated and its not exactly warm here so this is gonna suck.

Hopefully it wont be any worse than replacing the alternator though Now THAT was a PITA.

These cars are not exactly the easiest to work on....

Any specific installation tips you can offer?