CURVE BALL
DISCOVERED
FIRST LINE sheds light on the common
challenge of replacing the lower
suspension arms on the Land Rover
Discovery III/IV or Range Rover Sport.
When motorists complain of a clunking noise or a progressively loose
steering, it may be indicative of a worn bush or ball joint. Under normal
conditions, suspension arms typically need to be replaced at around
75,000 to 85,000 miles due to the wear of the rubber bushes which if
left may have a knock-on effect on associated parts.
joints. Once completed, remove the rear and front bush bolts from their
chassis mounting to release the old suspension arm.
Installers should refit all components in reverse order from their
removal and abide by the manufacturer’s torque settings. Finally, check
the vehicle’s steering geometry and correct alignment where necessary.
DISCOVERING THE PROBLEM
In the case of the Land Rover Discovery III/IV or Range Rover Sport,
problems can occur when removing the rear bush bolts of the front
suspension arms. The bushes in the arm have a metal sleeve running
through them, which the bolt goes through. Over time, exposure to the
elements can cause rust to form, fusing the part together and making it
near-impossible to loosen or drive out.
INCLUDE FITTINGS FOR CONVENIENCE
The First Line steering and suspension range continually offers the
aftermarket the right parts to getting the job done for an extensive
variety of vehicles.
Over 1,600 suspension arm references are available from FPS via same/
next-day delivery. For more information, please speak to your local FPS
representative.
If manoeuvring the part with penetrating oil does not release it, many
technicians are left with no other choice but to cut through the bolts, in
order to enable full removal of the arm.
MIND THE NUTS, BOLTS & WASHERS
Depending on the model, some arm bolts are eccentric, with a matching
eccentric washer. These are used to set the camber and castor angles
correctly. Thus, before removing the bolts, it is recommended that the
existing bolts and washers are marked to help identify where they are
located in the chassis mounting later on. This will help position the
new arm when it is installed whilst minimising the amount of steering
realignment required at the end of the job. That said, First Line supplies
new nuts, bolts and washers with their suspension arms and these too
can be marked during replacement.
Remove the tie rod ball joint nuts, then the lower arm ball joint nuts
followed by the adjacent bush bolts. This allows the arm ball joints to
be disconnected from their respective hubs, along with the tie rod ball
14 SUSPENSION
Highlights include:
• FCA6622/FCA6623 for the Land Rover Range Rover Sport
• FCA6655/FCA6656 for the Land Rover Discovery
They all have the additional bolts included, which are also available separately if
needed – FSK7717
Look for the Logo!
First Line steering and suspension
components are known in the
aftermarket for their integrated fitting
components that come with the part. The
latest packaging now sport the “Includes
Fittings” logo to help reinforce this
message, providing installers the peace
of mind that they have what they need
for a smooth and efficient installation.
VITAL NEWS ISSUE 50