I have a 91 4wd pup and need to replace the front upper control arm with a replacement unit due to corrosion of the factory piece. If I do not need to replace the bushings how difficult is the job?
Do I simply jack up the one wheel unbolt the tire, support the lower a arm, disconnect the 4 bolts for the upper ball joint which will allow the lower control arm/knuckle to fall away slightly. Will the torsion bar be unloaded at full suspension droop or will it still be under tension? Do I then unbolt the two bolts for the torsion bar and then the 2-3 bolts that hold the arm to the frame?
Ive replaced control arms on coil spring cars but am unsure of this torsion bar setup.
Thanks for any info or tips in advance.
I have already pre soaked everything is PB.
Evan

 

You pretty well have it covered. Time to go out and just do it!

 

So can you verify that the torsion bar is unloaded once the tire is allowed to hang freely? SO I shouldnt have to reset the torsion bar after reinstalling the new control arm correct?

 

The torsion bar is not fully unloaded even with the suspension at full droop. You will need to loosen the bolt. In your case, you will most likely have to cut the bolt because of rust.

 

Im sorry but which bolt are you speaking of? A bolt at the very rear of the torsion bar up under the cab? Is this a replaceable bolt or does the entire torsion bar need to be replaced if this bolt is seized?
Thanks in advance.

 

Yes, the long bolt at the back of the torsion bar under the cab. Loosen or cut/break that bolt, and all the tension will be off the upper control arm.

 

Ok im going to attempt to replace this tomorrow after work. Hopefully PB works better than it ever has before!

 

blowtorch always works wonders too.

 

Tried to get that rear bolt loose but I couldnt. Off to the shop for $300. Boo..rust is the devil.