2004 Rear upper control arm

[fredjacksonsan]

Anyone replaced this item? It's the V shaped piece that is attached to the body and top of the rear axle.

I'm debating whether I can do it without a lift or if a lift is required....looks like a bit of a reach to get to some of the bolts and I don't know if there will be enough room underneath to reach everything. I've got jackstands and that may be the way to go.

I refuse to pay the stealership $700 when the parts can be had for under $200 in the aftermarket.

[mikec041]

It can be done using jack stands on the frame rails. Tight and real PIA but doable. Suggestion remove and install ball joint while control arm is off the Jeep. You will only be able to use a box wrench to remove the 3 bolts holding the ball joint to the axle I'd suggest something like a gearwrench. good luck.

[jamx13]

I pulled my "wishbone" out about 2 yrs ago. It was a bit of a struggle but I did it in my driveway with the Jeep on jackstands & both rear wheels off. I didn't replace the entire wishbone though, I just replaced the bushings & the balljoint - got the parts from Quadratec for about $60. If you replace the entire wishbone & balljoint, you're looking at about $160. Here you go:

http://www.quadratec.com/products/52449_1052.htm

http://www.quadratec.com/products/52088425.htm

http://www.quadratec.com/products/56015_009_07.htm

[fredjacksonsan]

Thanks guys....I've got the new "wishbone"; found a guy that has a lift so will probably get with him for the repair.

I'm not interested in doing the job in 100* temperatures in the driveway.....

question -- did your handling improve when you replaced the part? I've noticed a bit of (I think) sloppiness in the rear end on the highway.