Cougar/XR7 V8-302 5.0L (1983)
Control Arm: Service and Repair
Upper and lower control arms must be replaced in pairs.
Fig. 1 Rear suspension (typical)
UPPER ARM
1.
Raise vehicle and support body at rear body crossmember.
2.
Remove upper arm pivot bolt and nut, Fig. 1.
3.
Remove front pivot bolt and nut, then remove upper arm from vehicle.
LOWER ARM
1.
Remove stabilizer bar as described under ``Stabilizer Bar, Replace,'' if equipped.
2.
Position a suitable jack under rear axle, then raise vehicle and support body at rear body crossmember.
3.
Lower axle until shock absorbers are fully extended. Support axle with jack stands or a suitable jack.
4.
Position a suitable jack under lower control arm rear pivot bolt and remove nut and bolt, Fig. 1. Carefully and slowly lower the control arm until
all spring tension is relieved, then remove coil spring and insulators.
5.
Remove lower control arm front pivot bolt and nut, then remove lower control arm assembly.
