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-   -   Changing control arms (https://www.fordforum.com/forum/ford-freestyle-71/changing-control-arms-50591/)

Rich73Kelly Oct 16, 2025 08:12 PM

Changing control arms
 
Hmm, not sure if this forum is still active ... Last thread was back in July ... Anyway ....

Last tire rotation, I was advised the bushings in the control arms are deteriorating. I've considered ordering new control arms and just replacing them as they have to be removed to replace the bushings anyway. I've looked at some You Tube videos and it doesn't look like that intense of a job.
My question for the "experts" here is this ... anything to be aware of before tackling this? Do's? Don'ts"

heiko Oct 17, 2025 03:52 AM

Yes replace the whole control arms. Additionally get a camber/caster kit (not cheap one under $50) otherwise alignment tech can't make any adjustment. The kit is a must buy if you don't run stock size on your wheels.

Rich73Kelly Oct 17, 2025 09:22 AM


Originally Posted by heiko (Post 148255)
Yes replace the whole control arms. Additionally get a camber/caster kit (not cheap one under $50) otherwise alignment tech can't make any adjustment. The kit is a must buy if you don't run stock size on your wheels.

First, thank you for your prompt response concerning this.
As noted at the bottom of my post in the signature area, this is an '07 Freestyle Limited, 2wd with their 3.0 engine and the dreaded CVT transmission with 235,000 plus miles on it. It has stock size rims and tires. It was aligned when I purchased the new tires just less than a year ago. There was no mention of any other parts needed at that time. I simply want to replace the lower control arms to get maximum life out of these tires.
Thank you for your suggestion for the "camber/caster kit" but, I see no need for it, running stock sized tires.

hanky Oct 17, 2025 12:02 PM

Keep in mind some alignment angles can change due to wear, shock loads and damage.

Was there a definite reason for replacing the tires aside from normal wear ?

heiko Oct 17, 2025 12:09 PM

Please show us your most recent alignment printout sheet and date.

Rich73Kelly Oct 17, 2025 01:51 PM


Originally Posted by hanky (Post 148260)
Keep in mind some alignment angles can change due to wear, shock loads and damage.

Was there a definite reason for replacing the tires aside from normal wear ?

Hanky ... I was notified last rotation on old tires, left inner tie rod end had some play in it. I let it go because funds were tight at that time. The started wearing uneven so, when taxes came that was the first thing we did. They replaced inner and outer. Said right side was fine.


Rich73Kelly Oct 17, 2025 01:52 PM


Originally Posted by heiko (Post 148261)
Please show us your most recent alignment printout sheet and date.

That information was sent to my phone. I will have to see if I saved it.

Rich73Kelly Oct 27, 2025 06:47 PM


Originally Posted by Rich73Kelly (Post 148264)
That information was sent to my phone. I will have to see if I saved it.

Sorry for the delay in my reply.

Apparently, I never got an alignment print-out. I looked through the "Vehicle Condition Reports" from the Goodyear garage that replaced the tires and did the work. All those contained was what they found to be okay, suggested repairs and what needed attention.

I also looked through the paperwork I got after the repairs. That was just receipts for the work done.

I knew it needed an alignment, especially after replacing the left tie rod ends. The work got done, I was happy with the end result so, I never questioned it.


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