Hi 04 xj8 has had clunk noise when hitting bumps since I got it last year. Local brake max showed me the play in the lower control arm big bush where it mates to the frame. They say the bush cannot be replaced, must buy whole arm at $600+each. Yet many parts sources including dealers show the bush as a $60 item. Can it be replaced without destroying the control arm? Some people on here state bush only can be replaced while keeping old arm. What is definitive final answer on this please? Thank you.
PS: relevant part number is c2c4437 I think.

 

The Lincoln control arms fit and are waaaay cheaper...Do a search use Lincoln in search box...

 

Your shop seems to defy logic if you're able to locate the bushing online. Yes you can press out the old bushing and replace. No need to buy the control arm. A machine shop can press it if you don't have the tools.

 

It's important not to damage the arm whilst swapping bushes. These are aluminium forgings and it is possible to create a crack site.

 

Some people have placed the new bush in the freezer and the

arm in hot water prior to fitting.

Can't say anymore since I have not had to do it myself.

 

Yes, a useful tip and one I also heard about.The aluminium expands twice as much under heat as steel so the gap for the bush to fit into will enlarge and ease the process. It also works on the removal of the old bush too.

 

Just had the two large bushes in the curved lower control arms replaced. Shop didn't have any issues pressing them in.

 

Ditto, by an indie down in darkest Somerset. They said the small bush lasts much longer.