69 Lower Control Arm Question

[Michael C.]

I've seen on this forum that some believe there are no "dumb" questions. I'm glad to hear that - here goes:

I've just completed my struggle to reinstall the front coil springs, then the spindles. While gathering up tools under the car I spotted the right side lower control arm shaft rear bolt was installed upside down by the guy who was helping me several days earlier. I know, I should have been paying attention to his work. The two bolts at the front of the shaft are installed correctly.

First dumb question: Does the upside down bolt create a structural/safety issue that must be corrected?

Second dumb question: If "yes" is the answer to above question, can a floor jack be safely used to hold that end of the shaft in place while the bolt orientation is corrected? If the floor jack would not be safe, is there another procedure that would allow me to avoid having to remove and reinstall the spring?

As stated above, the spindle is in place. The image below identifies the bolt in question.

Thanks,
Mike

ControlArm.jpg

[Joe L.]

Re: 69 Lower Control Arm Question

I've seen on this forum that some believe there are no "dumb" questions. I'm glad to hear that - here goes:

I've just completed my struggle to reinstall the front coil springs, then the spindles. While gathering up tools under the car I spotted the right side lower control arm shaft rear bolt was installed upside down by the guy who was helping me several days earlier. I know, I should have been paying attention to his work. The two bolts at the front of the shaft are installed correctly.

First dumb question: Does the upside down bolt create a structural/safety issue that must be corrected?

Second dumb question: If "yes" is the answer to above question, can a floor jack be safely used to hold that end of the shaft in place while the bolt orientation is corrected? If the floor jack would not be safe, is there another procedure that would allow me to avoid having to remove and reinstall the spring?

As stated above, the spindle is in place. The image below identifies the bolt in question.

Thanks,
Mike

[ATTACH=CONFIG]115482[/ATTACH]

Michael------


I don't think the orientation of the bolt has any effect on the fastening system. So, I think it's fine the way it is. However, if you wish to re-orient it correctly, it's very simple. Just place a jack under the lower control arm shaft for support. Use a piece of wood about the length of the shaft between the jack saddle and the shaft. Remove the bolt, re-orient, and re-install.

[Michael C.]

Re: 69 Lower Control Arm Question

As always Joe, thanks for guidance.