Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Use jack stands to support the vehicle securely. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools and Parts: You'll need a jack, jack stands, various sockets and wrenches (metric), a ball joint separator (pickle fork is risky and can damage the ball joint), a bushing press (or a socket and hammer method which is less precise and can damage the bushing), a torque wrench, penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar), new control arm bushings (ensure you get the correct ones for your year and model Venture), and possibly a control arm alignment tool if your control arms are adjustable. A shop manual specific to your year and model Chevy Venture is highly recommended.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual specific to your vehicle's year will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other critical information. This is crucial for successful completion.
General Steps (This is a simplified overview; consult your repair manual for detailed, vehicle-specific instructions):
1. Preparation: Securely jack up the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Remove the wheel(s) from the affected side(s).
2. Disconnect Components: Disconnect the sway bar link, brake caliper, and ABS sensor (if applicable) from the control arm. You might need to carefully support the brake caliper to avoid putting stress on the brake line.
3. Remove the Control Arm: This usually involves removing bolts connecting the control arm to the chassis and the steering knuckle. Penetrating oil may be necessary to loosen rusted or seized bolts.
4. Bush Removal: This is the most challenging part. Ideally, use a bushing press to carefully press the old bushings out of the control arm. Improper removal can damage the control arm. A less ideal but possible method involves using a socket slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the bushing and a hammer to carefully drive the old bushings out, but this is much riskier.
5. Bush Installation: Use the bushing press to carefully press the new bushings into the control arm. Ensure they are properly seated and aligned.
6. Reassembly: Reinstall the control arm, ensuring all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual). Reattach all disconnected components.
7. Alignment: After replacing control arm bushings, it's crucial to have your vehicle's wheel alignment checked and adjusted by a professional. Incorrect alignment can lead to premature tire wear and unsafe handling.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and Corrosion: Older vehicles are more prone to rust and corrosion, making bolt removal difficult. Use penetrating oil liberally and allow it time to work. Consider using heat to help loosen stubborn bolts (be careful not to damage surrounding components).
* Pressing Tools: Using the correct tools is critical for success. Improper techniques can easily damage the control arm or the bushings.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This job, if done incorrectly, can lead to safety hazards.
This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a repair manual specific to your Chevy Venture's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
