How to replace the Lower Control Arms 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Watch this video to learn how to replace the lower control arms on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Lower Control Arms on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

Lower control arms: Driver side and Passenger side
Penetrating oil
Grease
Silicone grease

Tightening Torques

Link-to-control arm nuts: 75 Ft-lbs
Link-to-stabilizer bar nuts: 20 Ft-lbs
Tie rod end holding nut: 78 Ft-lbs
Upper control arm ball joint: 40 Ft-lbs + additional 200 degrees
Lower control arm ball joint nut: 37 Ft-lbs + additional 90 degrees
Strut lower nut: 155 Ft-lbs
Arm-to-frame pivot (alignment camber) bolts: 155 Ft-lbs
Brake caliper mount bolts: 130 Ft-lbs
Wheel hub nut: 185 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

Measuring tape
Breaker bar
35mm socket
Hydraulic jack
Jack stands
Wheel lug wrench
Clamp or iron thread
Ratchet
21mm socket
Fork
Hammer
Wire brush
24mm socket
Marker
24mm wrench
Plastic mallet
Torque wrench: 20 to 250 Ft-lbs and 100 to 600 Ft-lbs
12mm socket
Flat head screwdriver
Crowbar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
Measure the distance between the wheel center and the wheel arch for reference.

Step 2: Remove Central Rim Cover and Transmission Nut

Remove the central rim cover to access the transmission nut.
Use a breaker bar and a 35mm socket to loosen the transmission nut.

Step 3: Loosen Front Wheel Stud Bolts

Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.

Step 4: Lift and Secure the Vehicle

Lift the front of your vehicle.
Place the vehicle on jack stands.

Step 5: Remove Wheels for Full Access

Remove the wheels for complete access to the suspension.
Place the removed wheels under the vehicle for safety.

Step 6: Remove Caliper Assembly and Disc

Remove the caliper assembly using a socket wrench and a 21mm socket.
Fasten the caliper assembly using a wire.
Unscrew the retainer from the disc and remove the disc.

Step 7: Disconnect ABS Sensor and Upper Control Arm

Unclip the ABS sensor cable and retaining clip.
Disconnect the ABS sensor connector.
Release the upper control arm ball joint from the wheel knuckle.

Step 8: Unlock Lower Control Arm Ball Joint

Brush and spray penetrating oil on the lower control arm ball joint.
Use a ratchet and a 24mm socket to unscrew the nut.
Remove the lower control arm ball joint nut a few threads.

Step 9: Remove Outer Tie Rod and Finish Unscrewing

Remove the outer tie rod.
Finish unscrewing the upper control arm ball joint.
Remove the ball joint from the wheel knuckle.

Step 10: Remove Lower Control Arm

Apply penetrating oil to the lower control arm ball joint.
Hit the wheel knuckle with a hammer to disengage the ball joint.
Finish unscrewing the lower control arm ball joint nut.
Remove the wheel knuckle by disengaging the CV axle and control arm ball joint.

Step 11: Disconnect Sway Bar End Link

Disconnect the sway bar end link from the lower control arm.

Step 12: Mark Alignment Camber Bolts and Unscrew

Mark a line between the alignment camber bolts and the frame.
Unscrew the nuts from the camber bolts using a ratchet and a 24mm socket.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

Important Reminders

Before lifting your vehicle, it is necessary to measure the distance between the centre of your wheel and the wheel arch. This will allow you to achieve an optimal tightening of the parts in their initial position.

In order not to damage the silent blocks, it is necessary to tighten the front retaining bolts in the “vehicle on the ground” position.

During this operation, you will be intervening on the front axle of your car, so it is advisable to perform a wheel alignment afterwards.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.