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How do I change my lower control arm bushings on both sides of the front end?

Tiny
KMBSJB
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 GMC ENVOY
  • 100,000 MILES
Is it something a do it your selfer can do? I was told by my mechanic, who has been and still is the best mechanic I have ever used, that both the front end control arm bushings are bad and need replaced. I just don't have the cash to shell out to a mechanic as I am going to need new tires, brakes, rotors and the tie rod end on top of the bushings.
I need to know what I need to do in order to replace the control arm bushings and what I need to buy exactly in order to change them out as I was told that you could not change out just the bushings but had to buy a whole component, but not sure what that is. I am a fairly experienced shade tree mechanic and just need insight so that I can fix this myself, if it is even possible.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 9:26 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Replacing bushings is a thing of the past. I would replace the entire arm unless you have the needed press for pushing around those bushings.
It is actually easier to replace the arm then do the bushings

Roy
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:17 PM
Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,757 POSTS
Just to add to this. Be sure to get a wheel alignment "Complete"done, not just set toe ASAP after replacing any suspension parts or you will experience serious tire wear.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:28 PM
Tiny
KMBSJB
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Sounds Good to me. So do I need to replace the control arm assembly? I am guessing that is what I need to ask for when going to buy the part?

I am guessing once I see the part as a whole and new I will be able to determine where it is currently, how the old ones come off and new one goes back on. Will I need any special tools in order to get the old ones off and new ones on? Thank you again for your help so far.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:33 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
You dont need too but it is highly recommended. No special tool needed, just patience.
As wrenchtech said, make sure you get it aligned when done.
Most parts houses can get the arms for you. Call around for your bids.

Roy
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:40 PM
Tiny
KMBSJB
  • MEMBER
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Sounds great, 4 kids under 10, I can do patience. This all started because I knew it needed aligned but have not done anything that should have made it need to be. Looking for lower control arms as soon as I am finished here. Thank you again.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
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Good luck
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:52 PM
Tiny
KMBSJB
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
So do I need to buy a Suspension control arm for both sides, a suspension control arm bracket for both sides, a trailing arm for both sides or all of the above for both sides. Just the bushings are bad so not sure which part to get.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 10:55 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Lower arms, both sides, link kits, both sides.
Trailing arms are in the rear. Did you need them too?

Roy
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 11:33 PM
Tiny
KMBSJB
  • MEMBER
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Don't think so. The only thing that is bad are the bushings so I guess I don't need the trailing arms. Thanks again.
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Thursday, September 22nd, 2011 AT 12:20 AM

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