W211 Rear Axle Upper Front Control Arm Replacement (Strut Rod, Tension Rod)

[pretzelmeister]

Hi Folks.

I need to replace rear front upper control arm (on right hand side) [A2303503606] on my W211 estate (S211).

Does anybody know if is possible to do without fully removing the rear subframe? (To allow enough space to remove the circled bolt.)





TIA.

 

[pretzelmeister]

Aha! There is hope - thanks to @Jobsworth - w211 rear subframe bushings | Wheels, Tyres, Brakes & Suspension

The front bushes can be done without dropping the rear subframe completely. It helps to disconnect the propshaft from the differential. You can then drop the front bit of the rear subframe sufficiently to get the bushes out. There are a couple of nuts that sit into moulded recesses in the fuel tank that you need to keep an eye on as you lower it down.

- Enough clearance to remove the front subframe bushes should also be enough to remove the subframe-side bolt on the upper-forward comtrol arm.

 

[pretzelmeister]

@Jobsworth - Hi Jobsworth. I am not sure if you are still active on the forum. If so...firstly thanks for sharing your expereince on rear subframe bush removal. Secondly, can you advise please if any anything else other than propshaft had to be disconnected / removed (brake lines, exhaust, air springs, etc)?

 

[pretzelmeister]

Update:

• Replaced the rear right upper front control arm yesterday.
• Didn't fully remove rear subframe.
• Emptied fuel tank, disconnected fuel tank hose & air spring airline connector at rear distribution block.
• Deflated air spring, and disconnected it and the shocker from the spring control arm.
• Removed brake caliper.
• Removed underbody panel.
• After removing 2 subframe bolts on RHS, above allowed subframe to drop down a fair bit - giving good access to inboard end of arm.