STEERING
TOWARDS PROPER
INSTALLATION
FEBI shares some technical input on control arm
and console bush replacements with VITAL NEWS.
Like any steering and suspension component, control arm bushes need
to have a durable construction to withstand the challenging conditions
they operate in. Their lifespan can also be shortened by road and
weather conditions.
STRENGTHENED FOR THE LONG RUN
Worn steering and suspension components can cause issues such as
knocking or creaking noises over uneven road surfaces. This can lead to
uneven tyre wear, poor handling and vague steering.
febi bilstein has the solution for steering and suspension repairs.
By strengthening the control arm bush with four rubber bars, febi’s
control arm can withstand large loads even under poor road surface and
weather conditions.
BEST PRACTICES IN REPLACEMENTS
In order to ensure longevity of the repair job, it is important to adhere
to the best practices below:
Installers are advised to pay attention to the torque settings
recommended by vehicle manufacturers. This will be necessary for
the front retaining bolt and wheel bolts when replacing the parts after
the repair. Once the steering or suspension component is replaced, it
is advisable to check the wheel alignment against the manufacturer’s
settings and adjust as necessary.
REMEMBER!
Any work carried out on vehicles
should be finalised with a road test
to ensure that the replaced parts
are operating correctly.
FEBI’S COMPLETE SOLUTIONS
• Wheel should be removed when replacing the bush. This provides the best
opportunity to inspect the wheel and tyre damage. If tyre tread has worn
out atypically, it is indicative of steering issues.
• Wheel bolt threads should also be examined for damage and replaced if
necessary.
• Following this, remove the lower ball joint by removing the retaining nut
first. This may require the use of a joint splitter if the joint is seized in
place. The track control arm will then need to be removed after removing its
retaining bolt.
It is also important to clean the housing during repair to remove any
alloy corrosion and ease the installation of the new bush. The installer
should observe the correct orientation of the control arm bush during
this process.
febi offers a complete replacement solution which includes a track control
arm kit, ball joint, console and front bush. To avoid the adverse effects of
improper fitting, each kit also includes important fitting information.
Installers can also visit febi LIVE for comprehensive information
guides that clearly states the correct orientation of the control arm
bush. Abiding by these guidelines help optimise the vehicle’s handling
performance and component service lifespan.
To address more complex issues, the febi technical team can be reached
via telephone on 01977 691 105 or email, [email protected].
febi’s range of tested steering and suspension components are available
from FPS via same/next-day delivery and catalogued on the F:Drive and
MAM Autocat. For more information, please speak to your local FPS
representative.
Check out febi’s technical video on how
to replace a console bush!
6 STEERING & SUSPENSION REPAIR
VITAL NEWS ISSUE 49