Upper

Tools Required:
Suspension Bushing Service Set
Rear Axle Control Arm Bushing Tools









Removal

NOTE: If one upper control arm requires replacement, also replace the upper control arm on the opposite side of the vehicle.

NOTE: If both upper control arms and both lower control arms are to be removed at the same time, remove both coil springs.

CAUTION: Rear suspension fasteners are important retaining parts in that they could affect the performance of vital components and systems and/or could result in major service expense. They must be replaced with one of the same part number or with an equivalent part if replacement becomes necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to ensure proper retention of this part.

NOTE: Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement to neutralize arm bushings and to improve axle Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) characteristics.

NOTE: If both upper control arms are to be replaced, remove and replace one control arm at a time to prevent the axle from rolling or slipping sideways, as this might occur with both upper control arms removed, making replacement difficult.

WARNING: Turn OFF air suspension switch (if so equipped).

1. Raise the vehicle, and support the frame side rails with jackstands.
2. Support the rear axle.
3. Lower the axle, and support the axle under differential pinion nose as well as under axle.
4. Unsnap parking brake cable from upper arm retainer.
5. Remove and discard the nut and bolt retaining the upper arm to the axle housing. Disconnect the arm from the housing.
6. Remove and discard the nut and bolt that secures the upper arm to the frame bracket, and remove the arm.

NOTE: If upper arm rear bushing is to be replaced, use Suspension Bushing Service Set and Rear Axle Control Arm Bushing Tools and the following procedure:





7. Place the upper arm rear bushing remover tool in position, and pull bushing out.





8. Using Suspension Bushing Service Set install bushing assembly into bushing ear of rear axle.

Installation
1. Hold the upper arm in place on the front arm bracket, and install a new retaining bolt and a new self-locking nut. Do not tighten the nut at this time.
2. Secure the upper arm to the axle housing with NEW retaining bolts and nuts. Bolts must be pointed toward FRONT of vehicle.
3. Raise the suspension with hoist, until upper arm rear pivot hole is in position with hole in axle bushing. Install a NEW pivot bolt and nut with nut facing INBOARD.
4. Tighten the upper arm-to-axle pivot bolts to 140-180 N-m (103-132 lb-ft) and the upper arm-to-frame pivot bolts to 162-203 N-m (119-149 lb-ft).
5. Snap parking brake cable into upper arm retainer.
6. Remove supports from frame and axle, and lower vehicle.