Here's a general outline of the process. This is NOT a complete, step-by-step guide, and it should not be considered a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your vehicle. Always consult a repair manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including metric.
* Wrench set: Both metric and possibly SAE.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. A pickle fork is possible but can damage components.
* Control arm bushing press or appropriate tools: This is arguably the most crucial tool. A press is ideal, but some DIY methods exist (using sockets and a hammer, but this is risky).
* New lower control arm bushings: Get the correct ones for your specific vehicle.
* Penetrating oil: To help loosen seized bolts.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specifications.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Always wear these when working on your vehicle.
General Steps (Consult a repair manual for detailed specifics):
1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel from the affected side.
3. Disconnect the Sway Bar Link: Disconnect the sway bar link from the control arm.
4. Disconnect the Brake Caliper: Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to prevent it from dangling and damaging the brake line. Remove the caliper mounting bolts and carefully move the caliper out of the way.
5. Disconnect the Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to safely separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the Control Arm Bolts: Remove the bolts attaching the lower control arm to the subframe. Penetrating oil may be necessary.
7. Remove the Control Arm: Once the bolts are removed, carefully lower the control arm.
8. Remove the Old Bushings: This is the most challenging part. A press is highly recommended. Improper removal can damage the control arm. If using a DIY method, proceed with extreme caution to avoid damage.
9. Install the New Bushings: Again, a press is highly recommended. Ensure the bushings are properly seated and aligned.
10. Reinstall the Control Arm: Carefully reinstall the control arm, ensuring everything is aligned correctly. Tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (found in your repair manual).
11. Reconnect Everything: Reconnect the ball joint, brake caliper, sway bar link, and wheel.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
13. Check for Proper Alignment: After reinstalling everything, it's highly recommended to have a professional shop perform a wheel alignment.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual specific to your 1999 Mercury Cougar V6 is invaluable. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Press: Investing in or borrowing a bushing press is strongly advised. Trying to press them in without the correct tools risks damage to the control arm or the bushings themselves.
* Safety: This repair involves working under your car. Prioritize safety by using jack stands, chocks, and following proper procedures.
This is a complex repair. If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's best to take it to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing the bushings can lead to serious handling issues and safety risks.
