DIY repair - Front LOWER & upper control arms + strut assembly - RWD 2008 G35S Sedan

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Nov 19, 2024 | 05:04 PM
  #1  
Hi all,

I'm at the point where both my front upper and lower control arms are shot. I have some MOOG uppers and lowers to replace, and I also bought a set of KYB front strut assemblies to replace as well.
  1. Front upper control arms - I've done the front upper control arms before, wasn't too difficult except for a bolt/nut being stuck on that I had to get cut off by somebody.
  2. Front strut assembly - This seems simple enough as well (but if anybody has any suggestions of what PITA things to expect, it would be good to know before I dig into it)
  3. Front lower control arms - This seems like the most difficult thing to do, as what has been holding me back from taking everything apart (cause the G35 AWD, Coupes, Sedans etc are all different from what I've seen in videos and what not)
I have a 2008 G35S Sedan, and I need to get these lower control arms replaced ASAP, I don't have the money to dish out $2-3k to get all these things done. (basically what I was quoted to do it all).

What is the hardest part about doing lower front control arms on a 2008 RWD G35S Sedan? Anybody have any good videos or DIY posts to share as to what to do? Any special tools needed, etc?

This video seems like it has the lower control arm part that I have. Looks similar. Is all of this necessary (and in the order they do it) to make it as easy as possible? Are the any PITA things I should expect?
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Nov 19, 2024 | 07:15 PM
  #2  
You need a good Torque wrench to properly torque the bolts and to avoid cracking the aluminum parts. Use this link to get your Service Manual and get the proper torque specs for those bolts.
There isn't any 'worst part' in replacing those arms, take a photo of how they look before taking them apart and replace them starting at the top. You need a good set of swivel adapters for those lower 3 12mm bolts that hold the lower shock to control arm bracket. Nothing under tension there as you jack up the front end and the shocks release tension.
NOTE: steering knuckle is aluminum so don't bang on it with a hammer to release the ball joint. Use a fat flat screwdriver to spread it and it will release.

The springs will need to be compressed to be replaced if the're OEM. Rent a spring compressor from your local auto parts store and watch few videos on how other do it so you don't get hurt..
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Nov 21, 2024 | 12:03 PM
  #3  
Thank you, this is extremely helpful. As for the springs, I have the entire KYB strut assembly to use. I shouldn't need a compressor right? (assuming the springs on the assembly aren't horribly bad compared to OEM)
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Nov 21, 2024 | 07:47 PM
  #4  
If it's a complete strut unit then no. You only need a spring compressor if you're swapping out shocks and/or springs, otherwise, it's remove and replace.
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