Whether you recently changed the upper control arm bushings on your Jeep Cherokee, or are installing a suspension lift kit, at some point knowing how to install the arms comes in handy. The process is pretty straightforward, and can be done by one person in an afternoon. With some creative jack work, the job is relatively uncomplicated.
Jack up the front of the Cherokee and remove the wheels and tires. Always support the frame using adequate jack stands. The reason the wheels and tires are removed is so that we can get more axle droop on either side, which will greatly facilitate the installation of the upper control arm. Disconnecting the shocks from the axle side of things also helps.
Attach the frame end of the upper control arm to the Cherokee. Do not torque the bolt all the way down at first, however, so that the arm can freely move in all directions to help it better meet the mating flange on the axle. You'll need a 21 mm socket or end wrench for this step.
Wiggle the front axle around until the mounting holes line up and slide the bolt through the upper control arm. This is best done using a jack. To get the driver side to drop down a tad, jack up the passenger side. If you need the passenger side to droop, slowly jack up the driver side. It can get tedious, as an exactly correct angle is needed in order to install the bolt, but with slow jack movements and a small hammer, things line up pretty quickly.
Tighten down both ends of the upper control arm completely. Without the bolts fastened properly, the axle could have lateral movement which can cause the Jeep to wobble violently while going down the road. It is also a good idea to get an alignment done after the suspension has been apart, in case anything is out of adjustment.
Put the wheels and tires back on, remove the jack stands, and lower the Jeep onto the ground. At this point it is ready to test drive, but remember to go very slow at first, in case the suspension decides to act up. The last thing you want is to experience what is known as "death wobble" at highway speeds.
