Newbie: Front Lower Control Arm DIY help

[stanto]

Hi everyone,

After quite a bit of search i found instructions on how to replace the Front lower control arms for a Mazda 3.
(I have a 2006 5 automatic 2.3)

Do the 3's instructions apply to the 5 as well??

My main problem seems to be jacking up the engine by about 1'' . Is it necessary for the front bolts to go in?

Has anybody done it and are there any other DIYs i missed maybe?

Thanks!

 

[Olde English 5]

I just did a the drivers side front LCA on my 5 a couple months ago. I did have to raise the engine up a bit with a jack and a block of wood to get enough clearance to remove the front bolt. The bolt is so long it will hit the engine before you can unscrew it enough to pull it out

 

[thaxman]

On the right side, the LCA horizontal bolt WILL hit the AC compressor. On the left side, there is plenty of clearance if you have the manual trans. IDK abt the auto. But yeah, if you got the car up, I hope its on jack stands, so you can use your jack and a block of wood under the oil pan. You'll see once you get into the job.

 

[Chris_Top_Her]

Hardrace offers a direct oem replacement that will give a more sporty drive if that's what you want.

http://www.hardrace.com/VEHICLE_Search.asp?Page=1&Car_Make=12&Car_Model=106&Car_Type=212&MainType=