Front control arm bushing replacement...

[mlw35405]

I am wanting to replace the lower control arm bushings (front) in my 96 Lumina and was wondering if anyone could tell me how difficult it is to get the bushings out/in. The manual calls for special tools, but, well, I've never been one for that. After 200K miles, they're gettin grumpy. THANKS!

[jeffcoslacker]

The control arm can be easily seperated from the ball joint with a $10 fork, or borrow one from the Zone. The rest is just bolts. Take the arm to a machine shop and have them press the bushings on if you can't improvise something. I've used large sockets and a vice to do it before.

The ball joints should feel tight, with some effort reqauired to move the studs in the socket. If they move around easily, replace them too while it's apart.

[mlw35405]

Thanks! I'll try to get them off myselves. The control arm removal looks easy, and i'm tired of all the groaning. I'll post what all it took to get the bushings out and in.