Left rear lower control arm

[frankjc]

So, this morning I attempted to replace my left rear lower control arm, the bolt on the front side of it won't come out. It hits the fuel tank shield. I was attempting to remove the bolts that go into the frame rail to see if I could lower it, and they snapped. Now I have to drill the broken bolts out and tap the holes.
I am thinking of ordering a new bolt, cutting the existing bolt and feeding the new one in the other way.
Anyone got any ideas? I thought this was going to be a half hour job. Oh well.

 

[tommudd]

Have done that on KJs before
cut bolt and swap sides ( install bolt the other way )

 

[frankjc]

That's probably what I will do.

 

[tommudd]

I've had a couple of KJs that the exhaust ( muffler ) was in such bad shape that I didn't want to have to pry or move it ( on the right side )
so cut the bolt after loosening it up some and installing another
Both of the customers didn't have money to replace the LCAs and exhaust both at the same time

 

[frankjc]

What did you cut it with? I tried a reciprocating saw but the bolt pretty much just laughed at my cheapo harbor freight blades.

 

[duderz7]

One of my favorite weapons of mass destruction is an angle grinder with a cutoff wheel, very handy to have around.

 

[frankjc]

I have this cut off tool, https://www.harborfreight.com/3-in-high-speed-electric-cut-off-tool-63023.html which i am sure will cut the bolt without a problem, but I can't reach the bolt with it.
I bet this one would reach it. https://www.harborfreight.com/corded-4-12-in-5-amp-angle-grinder-60372.html

 

[duderz7]

That second one is the one I was referring to. A good face shield is suggested especially since you will likely be laying under the thing.

 

[frankjc]

definitely looks like it will work....and an excuse to buy another tool.

 

[tommudd]

I use a METABO Angle Grinder, with 7 in Wheel, never have any issues since it can reach in easily

 

[frankjc]

Cut the bolt with the 4.5 inch angle grinder. Used a lower control arm bolt from a Lincoln Mark Viii, same size.
Got an OE arm from the dealer $54, with my discount.