SPC Performance 67405 Adjustable Rear Toe Control Arm Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The SPC Performance 67405 Adjustable Rear Toe Control Arm is designed to restore and provide full toe adjustment capabilities for the rear suspension of specific Ford Explorer vehicles. Many of these vehicles have been subject to recalls due to corrosion issues, which can lead to the removal of factory toe adjustability. This control arm allows for precise alignment settings, which is crucial for preventing premature tire wear and ensuring proper vehicle handling.

Key Features:

• Compatibility: Specifically designed for Ford Explorer vehicles affected by corrosion recalls that removed rear toe adjustability.
• Restoration: Fully adjustable design restores the complete adjustment range for proper alignment settings.
• Tire Protection: Enables correct toe alignment adjustment to help prevent premature tire wear after recall service.
• Versatility: Can be used in conjunction with SPC PN# 84130 for additional rear camber adjustment, if required.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present before beginning installation:

• 1 x SPC Performance 67405 Adjustable Rear Toe Control Arm
• Installation Hardware (as supplied by manufacturer)

Note: This product is sold individually per control arm. Two units are required for complete vehicle service (one for each side of the vehicle).

3. Important Safety Information

Automotive suspension work requires specialized tools and knowledge. Improper installation can lead to vehicle damage, loss of control, and serious injury. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified automotive technician.

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on a lift or jack stands on a level surface before beginning any work. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Disconnect the vehicle's battery before working on electrical components, if applicable.
• Refer to the vehicle manufacturer's service manual for specific torque specifications and procedures.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area.

4. Installation Guide

This guide provides general instructions. Always consult a professional service manual for your specific Ford Explorer model for detailed steps and torque specifications.

4.1. Pre-Installation Steps

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels.
3. Safely lift the rear of the vehicle using a hydraulic lift or jack and secure it with jack stands.
4. Remove the rear wheels.
5. Locate the existing rear toe control arm.

4.2. Removal of Existing Control Arm

1. Carefully remove the bolts securing the existing rear toe control arm to the vehicle's subframe and the knuckle assembly.
2. Retain all hardware for potential reuse or comparison with new hardware.
3. Remove the old control arm.

4.3. Installation of SPC 67405 Control Arm

1. Compare the new SPC 67405 control arm with the old unit to ensure it is the correct replacement.
2. Install the SPC 67405 control arm into the vehicle's subframe and knuckle assembly using the provided or appropriate hardware. Do not fully tighten bolts at this stage.
3. Adjust the length of the control arm to approximately match the length of the removed factory arm. This will provide a starting point for alignment.
4. Once the vehicle is at ride height (wheels on the ground or suspension loaded), fully tighten all mounting bolts to the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque values. This is critical to prevent premature bushing wear and ensure proper function.

4.4. Post-Installation

• Reinstall the rear wheels and tighten lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.
• Lower the vehicle safely.
• Immediately after installation, a professional wheel alignment is mandatory. The adjustable nature of this control arm requires precise adjustment to achieve correct toe settings and prevent tire wear.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper function of your SPC Performance 67405 Adjustable Rear Toe Control Arm, periodic inspection is recommended:

• Visual Inspection: Regularly inspect the control arm, bushings, and ball joint for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
• Fastener Torque: Periodically check the torque of all mounting bolts to ensure they remain at the manufacturer's specified values. Loose fasteners can lead to noise, premature wear, and alignment issues.
• Alignment Checks: If you notice uneven tire wear or changes in vehicle handling, have a professional alignment shop check and adjust the rear toe settings.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues after installing the SPC Performance 67405 control arm, consider the following:

• Uneven Tire Wear: This is typically a symptom of incorrect wheel alignment. Ensure a professional alignment has been performed after installation.
• Unusual Noises (clunking, squeaking):
  • Check all mounting bolts for proper torque.
  • Inspect bushings and ball joint for damage or improper seating.
  • Ensure no components are contacting other parts of the suspension or chassis.
• Vehicle Pulling/Poor Handling: This indicates an alignment issue. Re-check alignment settings with a qualified technician.

If problems persist, consult a qualified automotive technician or contact SPC Performance customer support.

7. Product Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding the SPC Performance 67405 Adjustable Rear Toe Control Arm, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official SPC Performance website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary.

For technical support, installation assistance, or any product-related inquiries, please contact SPC Performance customer service directly. Contact information can typically be found on their official website or product packaging.