Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Saturn Ion Red Line, 2005 Saturn Ion 3, 2005 Saturn Ion 2, and 2005 Saturn Ion 1. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Insert the rear portion of the control arm into the frame.
Loosely install the rear frame bolt.
Lower the control arm and insert the ball stud into the steering knuckle.
IMPORTANT: The control arm contains 2 fore/aft movement limiting brackets. Failure to install these brackets will result in abnormal handling characteristics.

Fig 1: View Of Fore/Aft Movement Limiting Brackets

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the fore/aft movement limiting brackets onto the control arm forward bushing.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Install both control arm to frame bolts.
Tighten: Tighten the bolts to 55 N.m (41 lb ft).

Fig 2: View Of Control Arm

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Tighten the rear frame bolt.
Tighten: Tighten the bolt to 100 N.m plus 180 degrees (74 lb ft) plus 180 degrees.

IMPORTANT: The torque sequence must be followed in the order that is listed.

Install the ball stud pinch bolt and nut.
Tighten:
1. First Pass: Tighten the nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
2. Reverse nut 3/4 turn
3. Second Pass: Tighten the nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft) + 30 degrees.

Fig 3: Identifying Lower Control Arm Ball Stud-To-Steering Knuckle Pinch Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
Lower the vehicle.
Road test the vehicle in order to test for leads or pulls. If leads or pulls are present refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment in Wheel Alignment.