Clunking noise in suspension? HELP ME DIAGNOSE PLEASE.
 

Hi all,

Just finished a brake job, and noticed that my front passenger side wheel had some movement and play when I was taking the wheel off. When I got inside, I noticed that the bottom joint (not sure what it's called, but it does have a small sleeve on it) was loose? Attempted to tighten, but didn't want to tighten any further.

Also, I do notice a small clunking when I hit bumps slowly from that side. Anyone know what the fix would be? I do not have a part diagram, so anyone that could post one would be appreciated.

regards

Thats the frt control arm>>has to be replaced >>BOTH sides!
With the frt control arm bushings.

You might look into aftermarket urethane bushings. Urethane with make the ride slightly more rough but the steering should feel more precise.

Also, I beleive that you can either buy the entire bushing assembly or save money by replacing just the bushing in the existing assembly. Replacing the bushing alone requires more time and a special tool.]

Here it is the featured article: http://www.e46fanatics.com/
http://www.e46fanatics.com/features/feature.php?news_id=40

Have fun researching.

Jeron

p.s. I found a mention of a recall on the bushings. You check it out.

Front Control arm..


Replace it IMMEDIATLEY

If I get the control arm piece, are all of the bushings included in the assembly. How easy or difficult is the DIY?

thanks,

Not real easy 2 replace>>U have to have either a special tool or an air hammer to remove control arm>>the bushings should come with the new arms>>If not they are kinda hard to squeeze on>>I use alot of lube & a pry bar to pry them on :)

Why does the control arm need to be replaced? Are there non-seviceable parts attached? Or is it just cheaper/easier to replace the whole thing?

Jeron

The control arm attaches in 3 places>>one being the bushing.....if only the bushing is worn thru then you can just replace the bushings>>if not the whole arm has to be replaced>>its one whole peice

On the E-46 the old style bushings are only lasting about 45 to 60,000 miles :( >>>the new bushings are very thick and havnt seen any go bad yet :)

This is an old thread but I have a "new" way to remove the old FCAB's. The first one I pounded on for about an hour and finally got it off. The second one I put a pipe wrench on the sleeve of the bushing part and rotated it slightly while spraying in a bit of white grease at the "top" so the grease would flow down in between the rubber and end of the arm. After about 2 complete turns while pulling down the bushing came off after about 5-10 minutes. I cleaned the treads in the car and the bolts and added Blue Loctite and torqued to 44 ft-lbs. The bushing are the HD type that are supposed to last longer. Not a great design IMO. If I have to replace again I'll get the urethane (or whatever they are) ones.