Aftermarket December/January 2023

I n this Schaeffler steering and suspension installation, REPXPERT Mike Tomkins replaces the front track control arm on the 2013 1.2-litre Volkswagen Polo Mk. V, using the FAG Complete TCA Repair Kit. Mike said: “The FAG steering and suspension range provides independent workshops looking for quality parts with the ideal solution, as the unique technical features, along with the premium fit and finish, ensure a best-in- class repair. Designed for all key applications in the UK car parc, the range follows Schaeffler’s philosophy of providing installers with a complete repair solution, which means that every box includes all the required ancillary components – nuts, bolts, washers and clips etc. – so technicians can complete a safe and professional repair from the contents of just one box, with no hunting round or waiting for missing parts to arrive. “The replacement of track control arms (TCA), which are also known as bottom arms or lower wishbones, is becoming an increasingly common repair, as the rubber 32 AFTERMARKET DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023 TECHNICAL www.aftermarketonline.net VW POLO FRONT TRACK CONTROL ARM REPLACEMENT Following our visit to Oldfields Garage Services with the REPXPERT team as seen in the November issue, here is the full fitting on the VW Polo Fig.1 bushes wear or can become soft. Also, ball joints are now commonly riveted in place, so replacing the track control arm assembly can be a more economical repair. “The scheduled workshop time to replace a TCA on a Mk.V Polo from 2009 onwards is 0.9 hours, plus a wheel alignment check, so can be a profitable job for the independent workshop.” Recommended workshop equipment: Vehicle lift (two post is ideal) Hydraulic transmission jack or engine support Ball joint extractor tool Torque wrench Process Mike continued: “With the vehicle placed safely on the ramp, slacken the wheel bolts, raise the ramp to waist height and remove the bolts and the wheel. Use a penetrating oil and a wire brush to clean the ball joint threads and lower arm fixings. At this point it’s also good practice to assess the level of brake pad wear and make a visual check of the condition of the hydraulic brake hose, as well as the vehicle’s other suspension components. Fig.2