MII control arm gap: Is this a problem?

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Mar 18, 2012 | 09:54 PM

Tyler S

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From: Tucson, AZ

MII control arm gap: Is this a problem?

Here is a pic of the whole lower control arm on the passengers side...

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In this picture you can see there is a gap between the control arm bushing and the back of the control arm mounting bracket. I'd say its about 3/32". The control arm on the driver's side fits snugly/flush. There are no extra spacers on the DS arm or anything like that. Is this a problem or can I just take up the distance with an extra washer?

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Thanks!
Tyler

Mar 19, 2012 | 01:25 AM

Mervy49

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From: Moyie, BC Canada

I don't think it would be a problem to just go ahead and suck it down with the nut. How are those lubricated?

Mar 19, 2012 | 06:37 AM

Tyler S

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From: Tucson, AZ

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mervy49

How are those lubricated?

Uhhh....I don't know. The ball joints have grease fittings, but as far as the bushings I don't know. I have another post on here called "to lube or not to lube...that is the question" where I ask what I should lubricate. That's all I've got. Cranking it down with the bolt would be preferable to shimming it with a washer?

thanks,
tyler

Mar 19, 2012 | 06:44 AM

EffieTrucker

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From: Kentucky

I would call the manufacturer of the kit. If that's not an option, talk to a good front end man. Personally, I don't like the gap. I think you would have to crank way too tight on that A-arm to pull it that far. Just my opinion.

Mar 19, 2012 | 08:15 AM

sdetweil

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From: Pflugerville, tx

I'd just add another washer.. effectively the same as getting a new spacer..

Sam

Mar 19, 2012 | 08:19 AM

Tyler S

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From: Tucson, AZ

Thanks guys. It is a TCI control arm. I'll give them a call at least and see what they say. I'll let you know

Mar 19, 2012 | 06:34 PM

Tyler S

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From: Tucson, AZ

OK, problem solved. The TCI instructions were pretty vague, but I talked to the shop and they intend for there to be a washer on both sides of the rear bushing on the lower control arm. So I put in the washer and the gap is fine. The driver's side was very, very snug without the washer, but I still had to get it in there. That was a real wrestling match for which I had to tap out

and get some professional help. Pete from the "Old Ford Store" here in Tucson made a house call and showed me how to shoe horn it in there. My son and I fought with that washer for over an hour and made no progress. Pete did it in about 90 seconds

The difference between an amateur and a pro.

Here is a pic of the passenger's side with the gap closed:

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