Doing my control arms this weekend - quick questions

**A4 Effort** · 10-10-2008 08:16 AM

So i've decided to tackle the installation of my new control arms and TRE's this weekend. Since i don't have a Bentley manual, i will be using the DIY write-up found here: http://www.audiworld.com/tech/wheel43.shtml

2 quick questions:

1) Is the removal of the knuckle/rotor assembly necessary, or does it just ease the installation process?

2) I understand it is best to torque the control arm bolts while they have a load on them (ie: car sitting on all 4s). I don't have a pit to gain access to the arms from underneath, so i'm scratching my head at this one. Can someone explain how to best torque the control arms with the car on the ground? I don't see much room to work given that my car is lowered, and the wheel is in the way. I'm thinking turning the wheel in each direction would give me clearance enough, but would like to get your thoughts.

Thanks!

**le91688** · 10-10-2008 09:16 AM

make your own write up with lots of pics :) I imagine ill have to do this soon too

**lotusgardener** · 10-10-2008 09:19 AM

2) You can have the car on jack-stands then jack up on the strut. This will put load on the arm.

**NyteEscape** · 10-10-2008 09:20 AM

Originally Posted by A4 Effort

2) I understand it is best to torque the control arm bolts while they have a load on them (ie: car sitting on all 4s). I don't have a pit to gain access to the arms from underneath, so i'm scratching my head at this one. Can someone explain how to best torque the control arms with the car on the ground? I don't see much room to work given that my car is lowered, and the wheel is in the way. I'm thinking turning the wheel in each direction would give me clearance enough, but would like to get your thoughts.

Thanks!

what about putting it up on ramps? that should keep the suspension loaded while give you some clearance...

**A4 Effort** · 10-10-2008 09:45 AM

Originally Posted by lotusgardener

2) You can have the car on jack-stands then jack up on the strut. This will put load on the arm.

Originally Posted by NyteEscape

what about putting it up on ramps? that should keep the suspension loaded while give you some clearance...

Two very good ideas - thanks!

I should have thought of that, but i have a tendancy to overcomplicate things at times. I might go with the ramp solution as this would give me an excuse to finally go out an buy a set.