Suspension Brakes Most liked posts in thread: TSW Adjustable Control Arms??

I'd love to help-you never call anymore.................

 

we need to set up a clinic out here, I will call you today-those bolts are indeed 18mm, I can help you out whenever, you know you can always call

 

Yes it's an 18mm, short socket works best. You don't need to drop the subframe.

 

Some may be curious why the question is being asked. The inner bolts for the rear control arms have one end recessed within the axle carrier making them difficult to access; the upper bolt poses an additional challenge. A ratchet with a deep socket or shallow with extension can't make the sharp turn into the space. A short 3/8 drive 18mm socket is what I use.

A universal adapter can be placed on the end of the 18mm and turned sideways to lock, a breaker bar can then be attached to secure, and then an open end or ratcheting box end wrench used on the opposite side.

An approach that allows the use of a ratchet involves a socket cap. Place a 3/8 drive socket cap in the end of the 18mm socket, insert the 18mm socket in the opening in the axle carrier and over the bolt head, then a 3/8 drive ratchet with short 14mm socket over the socket cap afterward; now a torque wrench can be utilized when fastening.

 

Why did you replace the IE rear control arms?

- andrew

 

Were the IEs bad or did they make noise or something?

I have a brand new set waiting to go on my R53. Apparently they were recently redesigned and they do "look" good. I am curious about the quality of the poly bushing, though it "looks" fine.

- drew

 

the factorty claim is no sound ...