Advice on preloading upper control arms

[IFFY100]

Just getting ready to change upper control arms and ball joints on my e320 2010 and was hoping someone could explain a good way to preload the bushes before final torque tightening? Thanks.

 

[OneForTheRoad]

Measure from the centre of the wheel,/hub to the wheel arch , underload , with the new arm installed, use a trolley jack on the bottom of the brake disc and jack up the suspension untill you reach the same measurement. Tighten your bolts .

 

[IFFY100]

sorry I should oh have been clearer. its the upper control arms on the front of the vehicle. I wouldnt be able to tighten bolts in the specified manner as the strut will be in the way .

 

[OneForTheRoad]

sorry I should oh have been clearer. its the upper control arms on the front of the vehicle. I wouldnt be able to tighten bolts in the specified manner as the strut will be in the way .

You mean the u shaped arm that holds the strut to body ? Pretty sure those move on the bolts , even when tight .

 

[IFFY100]

Yes it those. I'll give this a shot and see how it goes. Any tips when carrying out the job??

 

[ALFAitalia]

You mean the u shaped arm that holds the strut to body ? Pretty sure those move on the bolts , even when tight . View attachment 154047

I don't think they do....when tight the inner metal tubes are locked solid to the bolt and the mounting point in the car, the bush does not pivot around the bolt.....just the rubber twists....which is why you must tighten them at the correct height to avoid over twisting the rubber section and tearing it, drastically shortening its life..

 

[OneForTheRoad]

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