Today we will install the Cusco front lower control arm brace. This is an easy install and should take only about 30-45 minutes.
Tools needed:
10mm socket
19mm socket (perferably shorter type for pass side. The oil pan gets in the way)
lug wrench
ratchet
breaker bar
torque wrench
pair of pliers
razor blade
1. Loosen lug nuts. It is easier to break them loose with the wheels still on the ground.
2. Jack up front of car and place car on jack stands.
(AWAYS use properly placed and well seated jack stands on a level surface! Don't take a chance with your life. Wheel chalks are also recommend behind the back tires for extra safety.)
3. Remove the front wheels. This will allow better access to the bolts we will need to remove.
4. Remove the car's under plastics using the 10mm socket to remove the screws on the sides and nuts underneath. Use the pliers to remove the plastic panel retainers.
5. Using the breaker bar with a 19mm socket and some force, loosen and remove these bolts.
6. Mount the bar.
7. Retorque the bolts with a torque wrench to 101 ft-lbs. (Thanks Blue Bomber)
8. Start to replace the engine plastics. It will become obvious where you will need to cut them to clear the bar . Cut a little at first. Then if you need to cut more take off a little more.
9. Finish replacing the engine plastics. If you have broken any of the plastic panel retainers a nice replacement i have found is some "Ford" panel retainers made by Dorman. (part # 963-010) Yes... I know something just doesn't feel right about it (Ford... *shutters*) but they work, fit very securely and they are cheap. You can pick up a box of 15 at Autozone for $2.79. Only drawback is they are a little hard to get out.
10. Replace the tires and hand/light lug wrench tighten the lugs.
11. Lower the car and finish tightening the lugs.
12. Enjoy!
From the picture below you can see that the bar does not sit any lower then the under plastics themselves.
Suspension / Brakes
Hybrid Mode
