Upper Control Arms

 

 My bushings are squeaking..bad.  I guess it's a good time to replace them?  What else should I do and what do I need to know.

 Jim

Just be sure to put the shims back in place where they were when you loosen the upper control arm bolts.  These are used to set the front end alignment. 

If the bushing are otherwise good, you may want to lube them with some graphite or silicone before replacing them.  Might save you a lot of work.

Also take a good look at the ball joints.  They can create quite a squeak as well.

kstyer38628.8730208333

Ken,

Two questions, 

 How do you tell if the bushings are "BAD"?

 How can I tell if it's the ball joints vs. the control arm bushings?

 Thx

  Jim

  P.S. Hope your wife is doing well...

 

Ron is right on the money here.  But let me add some more.  Use a "mechanic ear" or just a stethoscope type device.  A screwdriver can be used.  Touch the ball joint, bushing, etc, and put the other end to your ear, and bounce the car.  Be carefull not to line up the screwdriver to poke into your ear when you bounce.  OUCH!.  You will be able to hear the squeak culprit.