How to Fit a New Front Suspension Arm on a 2012 Ford C-Max

Introduction

• Full step-by-step guide
• Links to new arms, part numbers, tools, and torque settings in the video description
• Job can be done without a ramp, using a high jack and axle stand
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• Other related videos available (e.g., timing belt replacement)

Preparation

• Tools: Two-poster ramp (optional), axle stands, wire brush, penetrating oil, various sockets (Torx 30, 50)
• Pre-steps: Jack up the car, place an axle stand for safety, remove the wheel

Removal Steps

1. Accessing the Suspension Arm

• Got a pinch bolt for the ball joint (Torx headed bolt with nut)
• Two vertical bolts at the back and one front bolt
• Remove undertray: Undo the torx screws holding it

2. Removing the Front Bolt

• Remove front subframe section blocking the front bolt (2x 10mm bolts, 1x 13mm added bolt)
• Use wire brush and penetrating oil to loosen the bolts
• Once loose, pull the subframe around to access the 18mm bolt

3. Pinch Bolt and Ball Joint

• Undo the pinch bolt (Torx 50)
• Various methods to remove ball joint: Use nut on the bolt to protect threads, hammer techniques (use copper hammer)

4. Dislodging the Suspension Arm

• Use suspension arm puller tool (optional but recommended)
• Alternative methods: Long bar to pry arm down
• Penetrating oil may help ease removal
• Be careful not to damage the hub

5. Removing the Arm

• Undo 18mm bolts and two upper bolts (21mm nuts on the top)
• Remove anti-roll bar bracket if necessary
• Remove arm, noting knackered back bushes and ball joint
• Bush and ball joint can be replaced separately but replacing the entire arm is often easier

Installation Steps

1. Prepping the New Arm

• Transfer ball joint guard to new arm
• Ensure the roll bar is positioned correctly

2. Reattaching the Arm

• Insert bolts by hand first to align threads
• Use copper grease on bolts
• Tighten all bolts properly
• Align the ball joint cut-out groove with pinch bolt
• Grease components as needed
• Follow correct torque settings (check video description for specific values)

3. Final Checks

• Clean threads and penetrating oil on track rod
• Track up suspension arm after installation
• If tracking at home, ensure to clean and crack the nut
• Replace wheel and tighten properly

Conclusion

• Suspension arm replacement summarized
• Replace arm vs. replacing parts individually (e.g., back bush, ball joint)
• Grinding rivets if replacing ball joint only
• Job is more manageable by replacing the whole arm
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