Changing of a control arm and ball joint

2000 MERCURY VILLAGER
150,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SHAWN CRITCHLOW
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
How do I change the control arm and ball joint on the drivers side on the vehicle listed above?
Jan 1, 2017 at 6:06 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You need a service manual for a job like this. It will include pages of instructions, with line drawings and torque specs. One important point that is not covered is to not tighten the pivot bolts until the van is sitting on the tires and at normal ride height. If you tighten the bolts while the van is on jack stands with the suspension hanging down, the bushings will be clamped in that position, then they' will be in a permanent twist when the vehicle is lowered. That greatly reduces their life.
Jan 1, 2017 at 8:28 PM
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