Highlights
- Replacing a lower control arm is a crucial task for maintaining the safety and stability of your vehicle.
- Use a pry bar or crowbar to gently pry the lower control arm away from the frame.
- Replacing the lower control arm on a 2013 Ford Explorer is a task that requires patience and attention to detail.
Replacing a lower control arm is a crucial task for maintaining the safety and stability of your vehicle. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as uneven tire wear, poor handling, or clunking noises, it’s essential to inspect your control arms and replace them if necessary. This guide will provide you with comprehensive instructions on how to replace the lower control arm on a 2013 Ford Explorer.
Safety First
Before starting any work, ensure your safety by following these precautions:
- Park your vehicle on a level, stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses.
Tools and Materials Required
- New lower control arm
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Ball joint separator
- Pry bar or crowbar
- Anti-seize lubricant
Step 1: Remove the Wheel
- Use a socket wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel but do not remove them completely.
- Jack up the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
Step 2: Disconnect the Sway Bar
- Locate the sway bar link that connects to the lower control arm.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen the nut and bolt that secure the sway bar link.
- Disconnect the sway bar link from the lower control arm.
Step 3: Remove the Ball Joint
- Use a ball joint separator to disconnect the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
- Be cautious not to damage the ball joint boot.
Step 4: Remove the Lower Control Arm
- Locate the two bolts that secure the lower control arm to the vehicle’s frame.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts but do not remove them completely.
- Use a pry bar or crowbar to gently pry the lower control arm away from the frame.
- Remove the bolts and take off the lower control arm.
Step 5: Install the New Lower Control Arm
- Apply anti-seize lubricant to the bolts that will secure the new lower control arm.
- Position the new lower control arm and insert the bolts through the holes.
- Hand-tighten the bolts as much as possible.
Step 6: Torque the Lower Control Arm Bolts
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
- The torque specifications can be found in the vehicle’s service manual.
Step 7: Reinstall the Ball Joint
- Reattach the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
- Use a socket wrench to tighten the nut and bolt that secure the ball joint.
Step 8: Reinstall the Sway Bar
- Reconnect the sway bar link to the lower control arm.
- Tighten the nut and bolt that secure the sway bar link.
Step 9: Reinstall the Wheel
- Place the wheel back on the hub.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the vehicle and fully tighten the lug nuts using a torque wrench.
Step 10: Recheck Torque
- After driving a few miles, recheck the torque on all the bolts and nuts you tightened.
Wrapping Up
Replacing the lower control arm on a 2013 Ford Explorer is a task that requires patience and attention to detail. By following these instructions carefully, you can safely and effectively complete the repair. Remember to refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific torque specifications and any additional precautions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I replace the lower control arms?
A: The replacement interval for lower control arms varies depending on driving conditions and vehicle usage. However, it’s generally recommended to inspect them every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
Q: What are the symptoms of a worn lower control arm?
A: Symptoms may include uneven tire wear, poor handling, clunking noises, and vibrations.
Q: Is it dangerous to drive with a worn lower control arm?
A: Yes, driving with a worn lower control arm can compromise vehicle stability and handling, increasing the risk of accidents.
