The AvtoVAZ classic has a front suspension system consisting of two levers. Replacing them is extremely rare, but they have to be removed quite often. The reason is the replacement of rubber-metal bushings.
On cars that are called classics today, a suspension system of two levers - lower and upper - is used. They are connected to the body with bolts and hinges made of rubber and metal. Despite the fact that the lever is a solid metal product, it sometimes needs to be replaced. There are times when they crack or burst. But more often, of course, they remove the levers to replace the silent blocks.
Repair tools
If all silent blocks are to be replaced, then you will need a spring puller. You will also need a puller for silent blocks, if you do not plan to change the levers, but decided to change only the rubber-metal bushings. And a puller for ball joints will be needed if the levers are replaced, but the ball ones themselves remain.
Also stock up on a spray of penetrating grease. It is advisable to process all threaded connections with it one day before the start of the repair. So you can ease your work, all the nuts and bolts will easily be unscrewed. You will also need a jack, a set of socket, box and open-end wrenches. And do not forget about the washers that are placed under the lower arm, carefully remember how they were laid. With their help, wheel camber is regulated.
Removing the suspension arms
Jack up the car and remove the wheel. Now you can place a support under the machine to make it stand more secure. Several wooden blocks are suitable as a support. The upper arm is easier to remove, there is no need to compress the spring. So let's start with him. Set goals right away and decide if you want to change the ball joints. If so, use a puller to remove the ball pin from the hub, then unscrew the three bolts that secure it to the lever.
Next, you need to unscrew the bolt that secures the lever to the body. You will thank yourself if you treated the threads with a penetrating lubricant in the evening. Bolts are usually exposed to water and dirt, so rust is common for them. If even lubrication does not help, then the last resort remains - heating. To do this, you can use a gas cartridge with a special nozzle. But such actions are usually resorted to if the suspension has not been repaired for a very long time.
That's it, after unscrewing the bolt, the lever is free, you can change the silent blocks and put it back. The next step is to remove the lower arm, for this you need to install the puller on the spring and pull it off, then remove the shock absorber. With the spring compressed, remove the three bolts that secure the ball to the arm. The outer part is free, now you need to unscrew the two nuts that will pull the lower bolt to the body. Everything, the lever is removed, completely ready for the replacement or repair of silent blocks.
