2nd Gen "How To" How To: Replace the front control arm bushing without removing the subframe

How To: Replace the front control arm bushing without removing the subframe
by Ron Pickett (aka RonsMinnie)

Safe work is paramount in this endeavor, Severe injury or Death can happen!
If you're not sure - don’t do it!!!!​

Thanks to some Pro MINIacs, & Motoring Alliance I installed new PSRS control arm bushings in my Gen2 MINI.

“SONICHRIS” gave a brief written description on this method for a Gen1 on that other forum. This method was then modified for Gen 2 MINIs and then coupled with “agokart” (Chad Miller of Detroit Tuned) Motoring Alliance Library article “R56 ALTA Positive Steering Response System (PSRS).” This article provided the final piece of the puzzle, with the idea of using the 3-jaw puller to remove the bushing from the control arm. No special tools are required for this install (the 3-jaw puller can be purchased or rented inexpensively at most auto supply or tool stores).

For me this method is much less complex than dropping the entire sub frame. Perhaps the MINIac pros can point out any defects in this method of installing control arm bushings on the MINI.

Remove Torx star bolt from steering assembly:


Driver side


Passenger side

Remove rear sub frame to bumper connecting bolts and loosen front bolts


Driver side


Passenger side

Remove upper sub frame connecting bolts (the ears going up from the sub frame)


Driver side


Passenger side

Remove wishbone / control arm carrier bolt


Driver side


Passenger side

Remove motor mount attaching bolt


Remove rear sub frame – While supporting sub frame with jack


Driver side


Passenger side

Lower sub frame


Remove 2 control bushing carrier mounting bolts (very tough)


Use 3-Jaw puller and remove control arm bushing/carrier/wishbone bracket


Driver side


Passenger side

Press out OEM bushing and press in new bushing


Reverse the above sequence and reinstall.

If you do not have easy access to a press, I would suggest purchasing the PSRS Bushings pressed into the carrier/wishbone bracket. The PSRS bushing can be installed on the control arm without pressing (a nice advantage over poly bushing which may need to be pressed on the control arm). The control arms can be removed to install poly bushing using this method; it just adds a little more time and complexity.

Many MINIacs suggest tack welding the PSRS bushing to the control arm. I did not have access to a welder so I replaced the supplied set screws with pointed stainless steel set screws and used lots of blue loctite.

Have the alignment checked – everything has moved.

Tools:
Safety Glasses and Gloves
Floor Jack
Safety Stands
wood 2x4s or like for supporting sub frame
3-jaw puller (I used a 3” puller that was perfectly sized)
Metric socket set
Metric combination wrench set
Metric torx / star socket set
Optional - but very helpful- Impact wrench ( I use a Dewalt 18v)


NOTE: There is a discussion thread here - comments and discussion are welcome.