Upper control arm — removal and installation Ford F150
Warning: The manufacturer states to discard removed suspension component fasteners (nuts and bolts) and replace them with new ones.
1. Apply the parking brake. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel.
2. Loosen the upper balljoint nut a few turns, then use a balljoint separator or puller to separate the balljoint from the steering knuckle (see illustration).
.2 Separate the upper control arm from the balljoint with a balljoint separator or a two jaw puller
Caution: Don’t allow the steering knuckle to fall outward, as the brake hose may be damaged.
3. Remove the shock absorber/coil spring (see Shock absorber/coil spring (front) – removal, component replacement and installation).
4. Remove and discard the fasteners, then detach the upper control arm from the frame (see illustration).
.4 Remove the fasteners and lift the upper arm off the frame bracket
5. Inspect the bushings for wear and deterioration. If they’re cracked or damaged, replace the control arm assembly.
6. Installation is the reverse of removal. Be sure to tighten all suspension fasteners to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications. Note: The pivot bolt nuts should be tightened with the vehicle at normal ride height. This can be done after the vehicle has been lowered to the ground or simulated by raising the lower control arm with a floor jack.
7. It’s a good idea to have the wheel alignment checked and, if necessary, adjusted.