Rear Axle Lower Control Arm Replacement: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Montana, 2003 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2003 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE .
Remove the rear wheel. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
Remove the brake caliper and support the brake caliper. Do not disconnect the bake hose. Refer to the following:
- For 2003 models, see REAR BRAKE CALIPER .
Use a utility stand in order to support the lower control arm.
Disconnect the height sensor link from the lower control arm as necessary.
Disconnect the speed sensor harness from the control arm.
Disconnect speed sensor harness connector.
Remove speed sensor connector mounting bracket.
Remove stabilizer shaft link from lower control arm. Refer to STABILIZER SHAFT LINK REPLACEMENT .
Disconnect the shock absorber from the lower control arm. Refer to SHOCK ABSORBER REPLACEMENT .
Use the J-41820 in order to disconnect the ball joint from the knuckle.

Fig 1: Using J-41820 To Disconnect Ball Joint
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the lower ball joint nut.
Use the utility stand in order to lower the control arm and relieve the coil spring tension.
Remove the utility stand.
Carefully remove the coil spring (2).

Fig 2: Installing Coil Spring & Insulators
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Make a mark on the lower control arm at the cam indicator (1).

Fig 3: Marking Lower Control Arm Cam Indicator
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the lower control arm to crossmember mounting bolts (1, 5).

Fig 4: Removing Lower Control Arm Mounting Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the lower control arm.