Remove axle to replace control arm?

[Ignited]

I have an '04 CTT with 128,000 mi and I am ready to replace my front lower control arms. I was wondering if anyone knows if I will need to pull the axles from the front transfer case? I didn't see a DIY on this so am really in the dark. Should I take pictures when I do mine?

Are there any other tips/tricks to replacing lower control arms? Thanks!!

Tim in Ft Worth

[working4it]

No, I didn't have to. There is a great write up on rennlist "here is your clunking noise"

[wvicary]

The axles can stay put, no need to remove them.

[Ignited]

thanks so much guys for the info and link. I was told by my local alignment/mechanic shop he would need $500 just for labor so I was looking for reasons it would cost that much to r/r 3 bolts and a ball joint nut. He must have thought the axles would have to come out. But great news! Thanks again!

Tim

[Ignited]

Got the job done and the only trouble we (yes, I had a lot of help from my mechanic/neighbor) had was getting the top bolt out of the end link. I forgot to mention I was advised to replace those as well and they are not expensive. It took some repositioning of the axle and hub assy to get the bolt out but we eventually got it. Looking at the old arm showed the damage: the rubber was torn out of the rear chassis bushing. I did index the cam washers but that assumes the bushings were not damaged the last time I had the alignment done. So I'm off to the alignment shop to make sure it's correct. They don't charge me unless it needs to be corrected anyhow. Thanks again for all the support!

Tim in Ft Worth