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Home >> Chevrolet >> 2004 >> Classic >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 40 (Front Suspension System) >> Repair Instructions >> Lower Control Arm Replacement >> Installation Procedure
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Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004 Oldsmobile Alero. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    Fig 1: View Of Control Arm & Bolts
    GM174616Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  1. Install the control arm (1) into position and install the bolt (2) attaching the control arm (1) to the crossmember (4).

    Hand tighten the bolt.

  2. Install the bolt (3) to the control arm (1).

    Hand tighten the bolt.

  3. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  4. Install the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle.

    Tighten:  Tighten the ball stud nut to 60 N.m (48 lb ft).

  5. Fig 2: View Of Ball Joint Stud, Cotter Pin & Nut
    GM186841Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. If necessary tighten the ball joint nut enough to align the slots in order to insert the cotter pin.
  7. Install the cotter pin.
  8. Fig 3: View Of Stabilizer Shaft Link & Components
    GM448984Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Install the stabilizer shaft link. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement .
  10. Slightly raise the vehicle.
  11. Remove the jack stands from under the crossmember.
  12. Install the wiring harness to the lower control arm.
  13. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  14. Lower the vehicle.
  15. With the vehicle at curb height, tighten the control arm attaching bolts.

    Tighten: 

    • Tighten the front suspension crossmember front bolt (3) to 60 N.m (45 lb ft) plus 180 degrees rotation.
    • Tighten the front suspension control arm to body bolt (2) to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 180 degrees rotation.

  16. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications in Wheel Alignment.