Replacing upper and lower control arms - DIY

Have a bad lower control arm bushing so am thinking it's time to replace it. And do the uppers as well, they're all the same age and use so if one has gone, the others will soon follow. Installed new front/rear shocks last year. I can use a wrench. Watched a couple of ChrisFix's videos on replacing control arms and it looks like something I can do. Any advice about taking this on? And other "while you are in there's" to consider? Autozone Duralast any good or better products to use? Had the tie rods ends replaced last fall.

 

Check rockouto i dont like suspension parts from autozone to cheap IMO .

 

Rockauto sells the same trash as the parts stores. I think the OP would be better off with replacing the oem bushings. But it's not fun. This is a great video doing it on a 4runner.
https://youtu.be/kmaZNBp1gZM

 

On a Prerunner, does the steering rack need to be removed? Didn't show that in my manual (Haynes). I just downloaded the factory WSM so will study that too.

I don't know if i want to replace the bushings, if i just replace the control arms, should I just buy OEM or is there a preferred aftermarket supplier?

 

I agree about rock auto. Every time I go on there to check a price it's cheaper until I get to check out and see the shipping charges. Not to mention the difficulties if you have to return it. Notozone and Leprechaun Automotive have there ups and downs; however, you can walk in and replace the part and I always try to get parts with the lifetime warranty.

 

No, both control arms don't require the rack and pinion to be removed. The outer tie rods are bolted onto the knuckle/spindle

 

I'm wrong, found out you just need to loosen the rack and pinion and lift up to get to the cam bolts.

http://www.bajataco.com/tech/control_arms_01.html

 

Thanks, that's what it looked like to me when i looked at it but the WSM said to remove it. Going to check for a local machine shop that can do the bushings so I won't need new control arms.