Toyota Repair: Avalon axles, sway bar link, prybar

Question
I tried replacing the drivers side axle on my 1996 non abs avalon today and got stuck putting it back together.  I cant get the ball joint bolts into the control arm because the control arm is higher than the ball joint. Do I just need a bigger lever to force the control arm down?   Should I undo the tie rod end or sway bar link?

Answer
Yup.
You need a long prybar to push it down. I usually ask the guy next to me to hold it down while I pop the axle in.

Mkae sure the "C" clip on the end of the axle has the open part facing down. That helps the ring contract easier when going into the transaxle.


Mike