Removing lower arms on 'TF' suspension

[RobboMC]

So I now have the FCC coil suspension kit on my F so the suspension is basicaly like a TF;
I have to remove the lower arms to replace the bushes,

Will I be able to get the lower arm back into place with the coil/shock unit attached or, do I have to remove the coil/shock unit,
replace the lower arms and then refit the coil/shock unit.

Lower ball joints replaced before so they have bolts ( not OEM rivets ) so maybe remove the ball joint mounting bolts ????

Yep I shudv done the bushes last time, but the car had already been off the road for 5 months,
and I think it was that pothole in the Snowy Mountains that was the final end of the lower arm bushes.

Yes I know I have to drop the subframe to get the lower arm bolt out - thanks for asking

[mgtfnut]

I can't tell if there is a rebound damper rubber block on your conversion, but on a TF you can jack up the lower wishbone, wedge the top arm in the "up" position with a piece of hardwood as specified in the workshop manual. No need to disturb the lower spring/damper fixing. As done for ever on Minis!

Also, possibly, you could remove the lower fixing bolt of the spring/damper unit to the lower arm on full droop if the blocking of the top arm is not possible - I don't know if possible on the MS kit?

I would next remove the "cotter pin" bolt on the lower ball joint and drop the suspension arm so it is free. Leave the bottom ball joint on the suspension arm.

No need to drop the front subframe, just loosen off the front mount fixings, deal with the brake hose fixings to ensure no tension in the lines, and lower the rear of the subframe just sufficiently to remove the two bolts - I'm sure you know this - good luck

[RobboMC]

" wedge the top arm in the "up" position with a piece of hardwood "

I'm sure I can work out something to achieve this, perhaps even use a pair of spring compressors to hold the upper arm
in the UP position.

Great idea that I can work on, I'll post a pic if I get it right, but it's a Xmas project. Parts have just arrived,
superb service from Mike Satur as usual.

[Reckless Rat]

Even a cold chisel will do the job of wedging the upper arm. Don't over-complicate it!