Bent lower control arm lateral link, seized bolt

Nov 29, 2018 | 12:26 PM

Dboy_47

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Bent lower control arm lateral link, seized bolt

I’ve been using this website for over a year since I bought my Rx-8 and it’s been pretty helpful, but I just now created an account now that I can’t seem to find much information about my problem anywhere.
About a week ago I ended up oversteering in the rain and, of course, I slid into a curb. I ended up bending the front lower control arm lateral link (F151-28-45XC) and figured well damn looks like I’ll just spend some money and replace it myself. I ended up getting the piece out BUT I guess the joint part that goes into the knuckle and connects with the control arm is seized along with the bolt above it. If anyone could help me figure out how to get them out it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
I’ll attach some pics of the problem, maybe even throw in a pic of my 06’ Rx8 lol
-Danny

Last edited by Dboy_47; Nov 29, 2018 at 12:29 PM.

Nov 29, 2018 | 01:26 PM

BigCajun

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Start with soaking it with PB Blaster.
That stuff works pretty good.
If that doesn't work & you have an air compressor you can rent an air chisel, that should get it off.

Nov 29, 2018 | 01:38 PM

NotAPreppie

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From: 2017 Miata RF Launch Edition

I've read a number of accounts where this link is seized in the knuckle. You aren't alone.
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-whe...nuckle-267952/
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-whe...k-bent-237301/

Here's the FSM page for this job (it's not particularly helpful):
TOE CONTROL LINK REMOVAL/INSTALLATION

The consensus is heat and an air chisel.

Nov 29, 2018 | 06:50 PM

dannobre

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I've had to cut a couple out.... not a fun job. I used a small cutoff wheel.... it is hard to access

Nov 30, 2018 | 07:58 PM

Dboy_47

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Thanks for all the replies I didn’t expect anyone to answer so quick lol but I’ll give it another go tomorrow afternoon. I’ve tried torching it, pb blaster, & hammering it out but no progress. I’ve been wanting to get an air compressor for a while though and now it will come in handy, I’ll come back with an update by the latest Sunday afternoon.

Dec 7, 2018 | 10:43 AM

Dboy_47

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I know I’m a bit late on the update but I managed to get a hold of an air compressor and an air chisel but still no luck. Is it possible to cut the bolt that holds the joint in place? Also I figured since the joint is still in place, can I just take out that joint from the new part and then hammer it into the old joint that’s stuck? Lol

Jan 27, 2019 | 12:22 PM

Dboy_47

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UPDATE: I had a friend drill the bolt until it came out in pieces and ended up replacing the part & the bolt.Pretty annoying job by far but im glad its done. This was about a week after I last posted on here. Been driving again no problems ever since.