Alrighty, I've always owned cars or SUVs and have just picked up a 1996 Ram 2500 4x4. Apparently there's a bolt in the front suspension that needs replacing.

The previous owner's sister drove the truck square on into one of those concrete pillars in a parkinglot at a few MPH, this apparently broke a bolt in the front suspension on the drivers side that from what I'm told is designed to break if too much lateral force is put on it to prevent other damage.

I've got a picture of the offending bolt + suspension piece.

A) What's the name of the bar running to the axle
B) What's the name of the replacement bolt I should get for it
C) and finally, from what I understand it's easy enough to replace if I jack directly under the affected area to remove the tension on it, pull out the bad bolt, and replace it with the new one.

I'm used to independent front suspension, so I've no idea even what to call any of the bits that I see.

I've attached an image. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Looks like the lower control arm bolt. I believe that one has an esentric head/plate on it. Make sure you note the exact way it is in before you remove it to install the new one.

 

its called a Cam bolt and its main purpose is to aline the front axle's caster. If you live in a northern state or somewhere the use chemicles to control ice in the winter then have fun getting it out. I had to cut mine out with a torch because the where seized to the inner bushing sleeve.

 

Is this what you need?



There is a parts manual and a service manual that you can download in the FAQ/DIY section. Very helpful.

 

Any tips on removing it?

 

Lots of PB spray...for days maybe just judging the amount of corrosion product.

Pry bar, BFH, Jack, Jack stands, Impact wrench, Air chisel (maybe), torch on standby, lots of muscles...or borrowed ones.