Clunking noise in suspension? HELP ME DIAGNOSE PLEASE.

jbripps · jbripps's Garage

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

BMWCowboy · 03-11-2004, 05:31 PM

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

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

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.

Jared at Pelican Parts · 03-12-2004, 02:26 PM

Front Control arm..

Replace it IMMEDIATLEY

jbripps · jbripps's Garage

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

thanks,

BMWCowboy · 03-13-2004, 10:40 AM

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

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

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

BMWCowboy · 03-15-2004, 03:39 PM

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

BMWCowboy · 03-15-2004, 03:44 PM

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

hcoles · 06-02-2017, 07:10 AM

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.