SUSPENSION AND STEERING 2 - 7
November 2007 GEM Service Manual
CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY
(WITH BUSHINGS)
DESCRIPTION
The upper and lower control arm connects the front
suspension to the front frame support assembly. It
is connected to the front frame support by bolts
passing through bushings that allow the control arm
to pivot vertically.
NOTE: The bushings are not serviceable. The
control arm and bushings must be replaced as
a unit.
REMOVAL
1. Raise and support the vehicle on a suitable
hoist.
2. Remove the hubcap.
3. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
4. If removing the upper control arm only, use a
3/4-inch wrench and socket and remove the
spring/shock absorber lower mounting bolt.
5. Support the control arm assembly, then remove
the bolts connecting control arm to front frame
and the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the control arm assembly.
INSTALLATION
1. Install the control arm assembly to the frame
and steering knuckle. Tighten just snug.
2. If installing the upper control arm only, install
the spring/shock absorber lower mounting bolt.
Tighten just snug.
3. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Tighten the
lug nuts to 65 ft-lbs.
4. Install the hubcap.
5. Lower vehicle to ground, then tighten the
control arm mounting bolts to 30 ft-lbs.
6. Tighten spring/shock absorber lower mounting
bolt to 60 ft-lbs.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Description Thread Size Use
Loctite®
242
Inch-
Pounds
Foot-
Pounds
Brake line to wheel/master cylinder
NO 37 ---
Control arm to front suspension frame
M10 x 1.5 NO --- 30
Halfshaft to steering knuckle assembly
M16 x 1.5 YES --- 65
Shock absorber lower bolt
M12 x 1.75 NO --- 60
Shock absorber upper bolt
M12 x 1.75 NO --- 60
Tie rod stud nut
M10 x 1.5 NO --- 35
Wheel lug nuts
12mm NO --- 65