Remove Stuck Lower Control Arm Bolt: A How To Guide
Those who have cars or are dealing in cars must have an idea about the control arm. It is a bar that has a pivot at both the ends. Control arms are part of the suspension system, which simply manages the motion of the wheel to synchronize with the body of the car.
Work along with bushings that reduce the friction and restrain the auto parts from going around. Lower control arm bolt actually bears the pressure of the entire vehicle, which if remains stuck can affect the way your vehicle is moving on the roads.
So, if you know the right way to manage these lower arm bolts and can fix it on your own, chances are a handful of bucks can be saved, which otherwise would have been wasted on the repair work of the lower arm bolts.
Removing The Stuck Lower Control Arm Bolt: The Process
The entire process to remove stuck lower control arm bolts can be tough, if you don’t have the proper knowledge of how it is actually done. So, let’s see what the actual process says:
1. Start by releasing the Ball joint
To begin, it is essential to release the ball joint. Simply take a wrench of 20 mm to 24mm or a socket to loosen down the ball joint after removing the cotter pin. Strike the spindle to shock the taper fit loose.
Hold the lower control arm by a hydraulic jack, if the job is happening on live spring suspension shock. Remember to keep all those maintenance tips that you might have learnt from the experts, sometime.
2. Eradicate Sway Bar Link
The connection of the sway bar to the control arm then breaks by eradicating the sway bar link.
Use a wrench or socket to remove the nuts. Grasp the sway bar link and remove it away from the lower control arm mount to avoid any disturbance.
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3. Remove the Control Mounting Bolts
Horizontal or vertical- Two lower control arm bolt are present in the vehicle. Using a socket, one can easily loosen and remove the bolts.
To remove all those bolts that have nuts on the backside, an additional wrench may be required. Hold the wrench tightly and firmly on the head of the bolt to avoid rounding.
Use a universal joint and socket to remove stuck lower control arm bolts. This will simply make this task much easier to perform. After removing the bolts, the arm becomes loose. So, keeping your hands on it will become much easier.
4. Remove the Lower Control Arm
If the control arm is still in the mounts, just grasp the arm tightly and pull the same in the outward direction. Move it up and down to remove it from the mounts.
So, this is how the lower control arm bolt is removed, just by following a few easy steps. This will surely come handy in case your car breaks down or there happens to be a car emergency.
Why not just try your hands on the same and work on those stuck bolts yourself at home. Save time and a few bucks with this process today!
FAQs
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Why is the lower control arm bolt stuck?
The lower control arm bolt can become stuck due to rust, corrosion, or overtightening. Exposure to harsh environmental conditions can also lead to seizing.
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What tools are needed to remove a stuck lower control arm bolt?
You’ll typically need a breaker bar, penetrating oil, socket set, hammer, and potentially a torch for heat if the bolt is extremely stubborn. Safety gear such as gloves and eye protection is essential.
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Is it safe to apply heat to the bolt?
Using a torch to heat the bolt can be effective, but it must be done with caution. Ensure there are no flammable materials nearby, and avoid overheating to prevent damage to surrounding components.
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How long should I let penetrating oil sit before attempting to remove the bolt?
Let the penetrating oil soak for at least 15-30 minutes, and longer for severely rusted bolts. Reapply if necessary.
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What if the bolt breaks during removal?
If the bolt breaks, you may need to replace it and possibly repair or replace the control arm. This can be a more involved and costly repair.
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Can I DIY this task or should I consult a professional?
Removing a stuck lower control arm bolt can be a challenging DIY task, especially if you lack experience or necessary tools. If you’re unsure, it’s safer to consult a professional mechanic.
Check out this video from EricTheCarGuy for dealing with the issue when a bolt seizes into the lower control arm bushing!
Conclusion
Removing a stuck lower control arm bolt can be a challenging but necessary task for vehicle maintenance and repair.
It requires the right tools, safety precautions, and patience. While many DIY enthusiasts can tackle this job successfully, it’s crucial to be aware of potential complications like bolt breakage and the need for subsequent repairs.
If you’re uncertain or uncomfortable with the process, seeking the assistance of a professional mechanic is always a wise choice to ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Regular maintenance and addressing stuck bolts promptly can extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s suspension components and keep you safe on the road.
