Torque down upper control arm or leave it slightly loose?

[StatusQuo]

I know this might sound weird, or maybe stupid but when I removed my upper control arms, I found that the bolts that mount them to the strut hat was slightly loose enough where the arm can articulate any amount without putting stress on the bushing, but still tight enough where I would have to put a little force in them to move them. I drove my car like this for 2 years without any issues. I didn't even know they were loose.

Now I'm installing new control arms, should I leave them loose as before? I will be lowering the car on coilovers so I know that's gonna change a few things.


If I should torque them down, how would I do this with load on them? Any tips?

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[a4lownslow]

Ummm bolts should not be loose. There is a torque spec for a reason. Even if you can’t find the spec definitely make sure they’re tight.

Two ways I tighten them with load.

1) jack up the brake rotor to load suspension . Put a 2x4 in between as to not damage rotor. Tighten bolts.

2) Put the bolts in and leave them a little loose. Install wheel, lower the car, an tighten.

I prefer the latter assuming you can get to the bolts with wheel on.



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[Theiceman]

Ummm bolts should not be loose. There is a torque spec for a reason. Even if you can’t find the spec definitely make sure they’re tight.

Two ways I tighten them with load.

1) jack up the brake rotor to load suspension . Put a 2x4 in between as to not damage rotor. Tighten bolts.

2) Put the bolts in and leave them a little loose. Install wheel, lower the car, an tighten.

I prefer the latter assuming you can get to the bolts with wheel on.



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yeah it can be tricky . Most times wheel is in the way , I wont jack on the rotor though . I usually jack under the spindle or strut to take the load. Of course GREAT CARE must be taken when doing this, and throw the wheel under the car as a safety precaution.

[StatusQuo]

how far would I jack? As far until the car starts lifting? Ive herd to go halfway and also all the way till just before the car lifts.

[JayDog747]

Before you start, make sure car is level and measure from the center of hub to fender. This will give you your ride height when tightening the control arms. Investing in jack stands would be a more prudent safety precaution.

[Theiceman]

how far would I jack? As far until the car starts lifting? Ive herd to go halfway and also all the way till just before the car lifts.

As you jack the spring will compress. As soon as the car starts to lift a little she is under full static load


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