You can rent a ball joint separator from any auto parts store. You’ll likely need it. Replacing the entire control arm assembly is certainly faster/easier than removing and pressing new bushings. Plus oem ball joints is nice.
I’m no mechanic, but I got it done. Just do some homework on this...
Lighter? No, just removed the dead spot and made it more responsive to small inputs. It is a 20 yr old, 3-ton suv, so the steering won't be like a BMW.
Yes, the rear control arms and panhard bar bushings really make the rear feel planted. Before I replaced these, I felt the rear end wallowing...
This is my opinion based on my experience replacing all of these. These are in order of impact.
For nice tracking down the highway
Steering rack qty 2
Rear control arms qty 8 for upper and lower.
Panhard bar, qty 2
Upper control arm bushing (qty 4).
Lower control arm bushings (qty 4, two of...
I’m not why your difference was minimal. I’ve replaced every bushing with oem rubber except body mounts, and installed new springs and globes. It made a HUGE difference to comfort and quietness. The ride is not jarring in the least. I do think body mounts will make a sizable difference in...