Adjustable upper control arm install
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Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 635
Likes: 2
From: Indiana
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
Adjustable upper control arm install
M getting ready to buy some adjustable uppers and had a thought on the install. It seems every time I take a control arm off my axle tweeks and I have a fight on my hands to get it back lined up. I've tried one side at a time, every which way I can think of. Nothing ever keeps it so it won't twist when a control arm comes loose. I was wondering how possible or advisable it is to remove the uppers with it sitting on the ground? My thought is it won't allow the axle to move at all? Anyone who's done it this way please chime in and tell me I'm either crazy thinking or it actually does work. Thanks
CF Veteran
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 1,843
Likes: 2
From: Ross Vegas, Ga
Year: 2000
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 w/ tupy head
Seems like the track bar would pull it causing it to not line up.I think the easiest way is one at a time but always a bit tricky.use ratchet straps to hold it and to move it around.
CF Veteran
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 2,164
Likes: 1
From: Warren, Pa
Year: 97
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0L
This. Just do it with the Jeep sitting on the ground. Use a ratchet strap to pull the axle into place.
CF Veteran
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 2,820
Likes: 5
From: Albuquerque, NM
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I've never done my uppers but when I swapped my lower(twice now) I did it sitting on all its weight. Chalked the tires and did them one at a time, easiest thing ever. I can't see why there would be an issue to do it on the ground. might have to get creative to get the bolts but thats about it.
CF Veteran
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 1,381
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From: Southern Maryland
Year: 1991
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 1999 4.0L
the axle can rotate without the wheels moving, and if it rotates the LCAs will rearrange to accommodate
just put the front framerails on jack stands and you can reposition the axle easily, use it to your advantage instead of a liability
just put the front framerails on jack stands and you can reposition the axle easily, use it to your advantage instead of a liability
Last edited by ehall; Feb 5, 2015 at 04:47 PM.
Seasoned Member
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 368
Likes: 1
From: Raleigh, NC
Year: 1999
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
I just replaced my uppers and installed drop brackets this past weekend. I jacked the jeep up and supported the body and then disconnected the front sway bar and lowered the front axle as far as it would go. I was then able to remove and reinstall the uppers with relative ease. The axle shifted slightly but because it was on a jack with wheels it was pretty easy to shift it back into place.
If you are leaving the lower control arms in place the axle should not shift much at all.
If you are leaving the lower control arms in place the axle should not shift much at all.
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Nov 7, 2015 01:22 AM
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