Procedure for replacing lower front control arm?
 

My A6 is out of warranty, and I need to replace my left front lower control arm due to squeaky ball joint and some clunks over bumps. Any one know of a written procedure for DIYer? I have Bentley procedure, but it's a little confusing.

The straight one or the curved one?
 

The straight one is really easy, should literally take an hour start to finish, the curved one is a bitch to get the bolt out of the subframe (at least it was on my A8).

I highly suggest you replace them both at the same time, it shouldn't be more than a good part of a Saturday.

Paul

Bentley really writes its instructions as refreshers for those who have done it before.
 

At least that is the way I read them. They are by no means Audis for Dummies. If you say "Front Lower Control arm, I presume you mean the straight one and not the curved one as the curved one is in line with the halfshaft and the curved as aft the wheel. It does look line a relatively easy dob once you get everything out of the way. I am not certain I would replace both the curved and the straight, but I would take a close look at the straight CA on the other side.

This picture is almost all you need for the straight one
 

<center><img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/22012/dsc03745.jpg"></center><p>Remove the sway bar holding nuts, remove the little piece that attaches the sway bar to the control arm.

Unbolt strut assembly.

Unscrew the outboard knuckle nut on the control arm until it is flush with the bottom of the threads.

Whack with hammer upwards to unseat the taper fit. Remove nut all the way.

Unbolt strut assembly.

Unbolt control arm at subframe.

Install is reverse of removal.

When lining up the taper fit, use a jack underneath it as shown in this picture to get everything lined up.

Start all bolts before tightening anything. You need to tighten the subframe and strut bolt once the car is supported by the wheel because the bushings can't move once tightened down.

And I would do the curved one. Same procedure as this one, but just harder to get the subframe bolt out.

And if you do it this way, you car shouldn't need an alignment. Don't take the upper control arms off or you'll have a hand full.

pw

Re: Procedure for replacing lower front control arm?
 

Thanks to all who replied. I was referring to straight arm, not curved one. My main confusion with Bentley's was their referral to using a special VAG tool for supporting suspension to prevent damage to upper joints due to "rebound". I think what they are saying is that once you remove straight arm, you don't want upper links plus brake components to come crashing down. Based on your input, it looks pretty straightforward. Thanks!!!

Re: This picture is almost all you need for the straight one
 

I have a 99a6quattro, and have been wearing out tires on the front- feathered on the outside and inside of the tires

you can hear it going down the road, i have replaced the outer bearing

would the ball joints cause the tirewear, and yes i have had audi alignment