Front End Overhaul

kmoney · Post by **kmoney** » 05 Apr 2009, 20:56

I have an '04 S60 with a little over 120,000 miles on it. I'm getting a vibration from the front end along with a clunk over bumps. I've been told the lower control arm bushings need replacing. So I've decided to just replace most of the suspension bushings in the front end. I plan on purchasing the replacement lower control arms with the new bushings already included to avoid the hassle of pressing the bushings in. Plan on replacing the ball joints while I'm there also. Recently purchased the heavy duty spring seats from IPD so I'll throw those in along with some new sway bar links. Needless to say I hope this will cure my problems. I plan on doing this myself some weekend. Are there any special tools I will need other than the strut nut spanner tool and spring compressor? Is there anything else I should replace? Don't think it's quite time to replace the struts yet as the ride is fine and they don't show any sign of leaking.

Any tips, suggestions, or advice would be much appreciated.

Thanks ahead of time..

cjones16 · Post by **cjones16** » 06 Apr 2009, 07:51

I would check out your C/V shafts, they could still be fine but they are right there

If you do replace the C/V shafts then might look into replacing the seals

Axle Seaks

As far as special tools, Id recommend VADIS, I have read about replacing the front control arm and you have to drop the subframe or lift the engine to get to a few bolts

wooded · Post by **wooded** » 14 Jan 2010, 19:25

ive looked at replacing the control arm, should have done it when i pulled the drive shaft!!. in vadis it lists that you have to tie the two control arms together with a winch strap when its all loose, loosen the lower motor mount bolts and raise the engine 33 mm to access the arm mounting screws. it looks like there is enough room to clear on my frame, i think it varies by model .

rbodor3 · Post by **rbodor3** » 14 Jan 2010, 19:31

you don't really need to do that for all vehicles. What I did was lift the front end, remove the ball joint nut, and then you can either ratchet-wrench the CA to get it loose from the strut or you can use a long rod to pull it down to give you leverage.

I could get to both bushing bolts & nuts with just some maneuvering.

wooded · Post by **wooded** » 15 Jan 2010, 06:58

Have any of you used meyle parts? control arm or ball joints? what is their performance/ durability?