The nut for the balljoints tightens to 64 ft. Lbs.
The 2 mounting bolts tighten to 39 ft. Lbs. But you can't really fit a torque wrench in there.

I didn't get an alignment after I installed the new UCAs and the steering felt the same, I'm not sure if you NEED an alignment....

 

Man does that look easy! I don't need to replace my UCA just yet. But, when time comes, I'll be ready. As for the alignment, since you're adjusting the camber, I don't see how you could not need an alignment.

 

You will only need alignment if you are going to use the aftermarket UCAs with adjustable camber but if you use OEM or Non adjustable UCAs I don't think it's necessary to get an alignment.

 

Great info guys!!!

 

Does a sport edition have a different control arm than non sport edition?

 

you mean UCA? then no. there all the same. control arm no. 2 got beefier in 2003 +

 

I notice when you go to buy upper control arm that it asks if you want with or without special edition. Any idea what that means? This is for a 2002 GS3

 

So I should buy an 03+ ? Does that include aftermarket also?

 

not sure about after market as they are probably made differently... I probably wouldn't go after market on these.. The price isn't terrible on Sewell's website... Its the UCA's that are priced out of this world..

 

The garage is telling me I need upper ball joint, lower ball joint, upper control arm, tie rod end, and an alignment—all on the passenger side only. They said everything on the driver's side is nice and tight. They said this isn't uncommon in the Northeast as the curb side gets most of the salt, sand, potholes, etc. They're telling me $775 with labor (using aftermarket parts). I think I could do all but the alignment myself, but this is a reputable garage and it seems like a good price. Any thoughts?

 

you could do it all your self . just pay for align ment .

 

Yeah, I'm leaning in that direction. I've done a lot of my own work (door actuators, brakes pads and rotors, hood release cable) and the DIYs make this work look like with the right tools and common sense, I could do it, I just don't want to get well into it and find I'm out of my depth. But, I guess that the risk when you're trying to save money. Thanks for your advice.

Oh, of the aftermarket parts, ACDelco is somewhat more expensive than the others, do you know if their parts are actually higher quality than, say, Moog? Thanks.

 

who can help me out with this