Here's a general overview of the process. Specific steps and tools may vary slightly depending on the year and model of your Town & Country. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to unsafe driving conditions.
Tools you'll likely need:
* Jack and jack stands: Crucial for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: For safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
* Control arm bushing removal and installation tool: This is usually a specialized tool that's essential for pressing out the old and pressing in the new bushings. You may be able to rent this from an auto parts store. A press is ideal but a strong vice and appropriate sockets can sometimes suffice.
* Hammer (possibly a mallet): May be needed depending on the bushing removal tool.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: Extremely important to properly tighten bolts to manufacturer specifications.
* Shop manual: Provides specific torque specs and procedure for your vehicle.
General Steps (This is NOT a substitute for a repair manual):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the vehicle safely using the jack and secure it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel from the affected side.
3. Disconnect Components: Disconnect the sway bar link, brake caliper (support it with a wire or bungee cord), and the ABS sensor (if applicable). You may need to disconnect the ball joint from the steering knuckle using a ball joint separator. This is often the most challenging part.
4. Remove the Control Arm: Unbolt the control arm from the frame and the steering knuckle. Penetrating oil may be necessary to loosen rusted bolts.
5. Remove the Old Bushings: This is where the specialized bushing removal tool comes into play. Carefully press out the old bushings from the control arm.
6. Install the New Bushings: Use the installation tool to press the new bushings into the control arm. Ensure they are seated properly.
7. Reassemble: Reassemble the control arm, paying attention to the proper order and torque specifications for all bolts. Reconnect the brake caliper, sway bar link, and ABS sensor.
8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
9. Torque Specs: Critically important: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications found in your repair manual.
10. Test Drive: After reassembly, test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Pressing Tools: Getting the old bushings out and the new ones in correctly requires the proper tools. Improper techniques can damage the control arm.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your year and model Town & Country is essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and part numbers.
* Safety: Working under a vehicle is dangerous. Always use jack stands and follow safe lifting procedures.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process is more complex and requires precision. Again, if you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed control arm bushings can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
