In the next month or so, whenever the weather decides to break, I'l be installing some coil overs and rear control arms.

My question, though, is how difficult is it really to install the rear control arms? I know its only two bolts on each side, but how difficult is it to remove the inner bolt from the sub-frame? I know the bolt is close to the gas tank, but is there enough room to get it out without having to drop the sub frame? Am I getting myself paranoid over this?

 

Nik,

Not sure if you've posted in the R55/R56 area and received input?

Pelican Parts has a DIY: MINI Cooper R56 Control Arm Replacement

 

Thanks. Ive read through the DIY guides, but I’m getting myself worked up concerning removing the bolt on the inside end. Just want to be reaffirmed that it will come out without much of a clearance issue. It will be my first suspension project on the Mini. Everything seems very tightly placed.

 

I changed mine a couple of weeks ago and it was not that bad.

I rate MINI jobs by how many times I say PintheA or MFSofB and actual don't think I said either.

 

Looks like the R55 has the same design as the R53.

Did you see this DIY? Rear Camber Links

Bill talks about pushing the aluminum heat shield to gain some space to remove the bolt. I didn't need to, but it is tight in there. Not sure if the R55 is different here. Either way, again, not a problem. Same as what I did.

 

Sounds like I’m just getting myself worked up

Thanks for the confidence boost!

 

Just got done installing the HSport rear lower links, and it wasn’t a terrible job. Had to find a 3/8” 18mm socket and a stubby extension to fit between the subframe and the gas tank. Other than that, out with the old and in with the new! Now just need to get the coilovers installed, and head to the alignment shop...

 

Sounds like success!

Did you torque down the mounting bolts with the control arm with the hub approximately where it would be if the car was on the ground? Helps to keep the bushings from twisting/tearing apart over time or so I was told.

 

I did not torque on the ground or loaded. I smeared a ton of grease on the sides of the bushings to get the arms wedged into the brackets that, even with the bolts torqued, there was still enough movement of the arm to allow the suspension to settle.