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- Jeep Cherokee XJ 1984 to 2001 How to Install Lower Control Arms
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How to Install Lower Control Arms
#1
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Year: 1998
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How to Install Lower Control Arms
Ok so I bought some new re super ride fixed lower control arms for my xj which has a 4" lift and have a few questions about the install:
What I know- I need to pb blast the bolts every other day or so a week prior to putting them in, I need to support the axle and make sure it doesn't move out of place when putting them in, and I should do one side at a time.
What I would like to know- how to and if I need to grease them, how to keep the cam bolts straight or something (?), and how to install them without having to go get an allignment.
Thanks for the help
What I know- I need to pb blast the bolts every other day or so a week prior to putting them in, I need to support the axle and make sure it doesn't move out of place when putting them in, and I should do one side at a time.
What I would like to know- how to and if I need to grease them, how to keep the cam bolts straight or something (?), and how to install them without having to go get an allignment.
Thanks for the help
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#3
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No cam bolts to worry about on a XJ.. If you change the arms you MUST get an alignment, since you are going to be changing it with the new arms and lift. There many write-up on DIY alignment, it is very easy and only requires 2 wrenches and a tape measure. Yes you need to grease them, the arms should have fittings. You are putting longer arms on so you will have to move the axle to mount them, Ratchet straps come in handy. Easier to do with wheels mounted on the axel so you can roll it around. Torque all bolts you loosen after you remove the jacks.
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Year: 1998
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Originally Posted by opie1988
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Year: 1998
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Originally Posted by 93gc40
No cam bolts to worry about on a XJ.. If you change the arms you MUST get an alignment, since you are going to be changing it with the new arms and lift. There many write-up on DIY alignment, it is very easy and only requires 2 wrenches and a tape measure. Yes you need to grease them, the arms should have fittings. You are putting longer arms on so you will have to move the axle to mount them, Ratchet straps come in handy. Easier to do with wheels mounted on the axel so you can roll it around. Torque all bolts you loosen after you remove the jacks.
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Year: 1998
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Ok so I think I've decided to take it to a shop to get it aligned. Probably better to get it done right. So greasing them? What do I use and how do I do it? And what is the easiest way to pull the axle forward?
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Year: 1998
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Use a grease gun and pump grease into the small fittings visible on the joint. As for the installation you can use ratchet straps or a come-along to pull it into place, a jack to hold it up, or just muscle it with some buddies
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Year: 1996
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Engine: 4.0 HO
So what do you need to use the ratchet straps for? What do you ratchet to what? I'm replacing a stock LCA to one for a 3" lift. Thanks.
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Year: 1998
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Ok so when you take your old lower control arms off (I did mine 1 at a time) the axle will be too close to the frame mount to fit the new longer lower so you can connect the straps to the axle and like a tree or something to get the axle in place and hold it while you instal the new lca
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The strap is to pull the axle back into place, when you remove the arms the axle moves away from the arms so upon installation you'll be pulling the axle into the arms so you can bolt them up.
When you swap them just make sure you have one or two handy, you'll understand better once you see it.
When you swap them just make sure you have one or two handy, you'll understand better once you see it.
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Year: 1996
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Engine: 4.0 HO
Thanks, that's kinda what I thought. I'm also assuming it won't take TOO much to move the axle. I don't have a tree handy, but I think I can hook to a tow hitch of another vehicle to get the same result.
If it's up on a lift, does it make it easier or harder?
If it's up on a lift, does it make it easier or harder?