Peugeot 107 Wishbone Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey guys! If you're experiencing some funky handling with your Peugeot 107, or you've noticed some unusual noises coming from the front suspension, it might be time to tackle a wishbone replacement. Don't worry, it's a job you can definitely do yourself with the right tools and a bit of know-how. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, making it as straightforward as possible. So, grab your wrenches, and let's get started!

Why Replace Your Peugeot 107 Wishbone?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly cover why you might need to replace your Peugeot 107's wishbone in the first place. The wishbone, also known as a control arm, is a crucial component of your car's suspension system. It connects the wheel hub to the vehicle's chassis, allowing the suspension to move up and down while maintaining wheel alignment. Over time, the wishbone's bushings and ball joint can wear out, leading to a variety of problems.

  • Worn bushings can cause excessive play in the suspension, resulting in vague steering, clunking noises when going over bumps, and uneven tire wear. You might notice the car pulling to one side, especially under braking.
  • A failing ball joint can be even more serious. It can cause a knocking or creaking sound, and in extreme cases, it can separate completely, leading to a loss of control. This is a major safety hazard, so don't ignore the symptoms!

Other signs that your Peugeot 107 wishbone might need replacing include visible damage such as cracks or bending, or if the car has failed its MOT (Ministry of Transport) test due to excessive play in the suspension. Regular inspections are vital, and addressing these issues promptly will ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable driving experience. Remember, neglecting suspension problems can lead to further damage and higher repair costs down the line. So, if you're noticing any of these symptoms, it's best to get your Peugeot 107 checked out as soon as possible.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Okay, so you've decided that your Peugeot 107 needs a wishbone replacement. Here’s a list of the tools and materials you'll need to get the job done right. Having everything prepared beforehand will make the process much smoother and prevent any frustrating mid-job trips to the auto parts store.

  • New Wishbone: Make sure you get the correct wishbone for your Peugeot 107. Check the part number and compatibility before you buy. It's often a good idea to replace both wishbones at the same time, even if only one is showing signs of wear. This ensures balanced handling and prevents you from having to do the same job again in the near future. Consider buying from a reputable supplier to ensure quality and reliability.
  • Socket Set: You'll need a good set of sockets in various sizes to remove the nuts and bolts holding the wishbone in place. A set that includes both metric and imperial sizes is a good investment, as you never know when you might need them. Look for a set with a ratchet and extension bars for easier access to tight spaces.
  • Wrench Set: Similar to the socket set, a comprehensive wrench set is essential. Combination wrenches (open-end and box-end on the same wrench) are particularly useful. Make sure you have the sizes that match the nuts and bolts on your Peugeot 107's wishbone.
  • Torque Wrench: This is crucial for tightening the nuts and bolts to the correct torque specifications. Over-tightening can damage the components, while under-tightening can lead to them coming loose. Consult your car's repair manual for the correct torque values.
  • Ball Joint Separator (Pickle Fork or Ball Joint Press): This tool is used to separate the ball joint from the hub assembly. There are two main types: a pickle fork, which wedges between the ball joint and the hub, and a ball joint press, which uses pressure to separate the joint. A ball joint press is generally safer and less likely to damage the surrounding components.
  • Jack and Jack Stands: You'll need a jack to lift the car and jack stands to support it safely while you're working underneath. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are an essential safety item.
  • Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling while you're working on the front suspension. Safety first!
  • Penetrating Oil: Spraying penetrating oil on the nuts and bolts before you start can help loosen them and prevent them from stripping. Let it soak in for a few minutes before attempting to remove the fasteners.
  • Hammer: A hammer can be useful for tapping things into place or for gently persuading stubborn components to come apart.
  • Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands and eyes from dirt, grease, and potential flying debris.
  • Wheel Alignment Tool (Optional): After replacing the wishbone, it's highly recommended to get a wheel alignment. However, if you're confident, you can use a DIY wheel alignment tool to get it close enough to drive to a professional alignment shop.

With these tools and materials at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the Peugeot 107 wishbone replacement. Remember to take your time, work carefully, and prioritize safety throughout the process.

Step-by-Step Wishbone Replacement Guide

Alright, let's get down to the actual replacement process. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your Peugeot 107 back on the road in no time. Remember to work in a well-lit and safe environment, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you're unsure about any of the steps.

  1. Prepare the Vehicle:
    • Park your Peugeot 107 on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
    • Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel of the side you'll be working on. Don't remove them completely yet.
    • Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
  2. Lift and Secure the Vehicle:
    • Use the jack to lift the car until the wheel is off the ground.
    • Place a jack stand under the vehicle's frame near the jacking point. Make sure the jack stand is securely positioned.
    • Carefully lower the car onto the jack stand. The jack stand should be supporting the weight of the vehicle, not the jack.
    • Remove the wheel completely.
  3. Disconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable):
    • If your Peugeot 107 has ABS, carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from its mounting clips on the wishbone and hub assembly. This will prevent damage to the sensor during the wishbone removal.
  4. Disconnect the Brake Caliper (Optional):
    • While not always necessary, disconnecting the brake caliper can provide more room to work. If you choose to do this, remove the two bolts holding the caliper to the hub assembly.
    • Carefully detach the caliper and secure it out of the way with a bungee cord or wire. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose. This can damage the hose and lead to brake failure.
  5. Separate the Ball Joint:
    • This is often the trickiest part of the job. Use penetrating oil on the ball joint nut and let it soak for a few minutes.
    • Loosen the ball joint nut, but don't remove it completely. Leave it threaded on a few turns to protect the threads.
    • Use a ball joint separator (pickle fork or ball joint press) to separate the ball joint from the hub assembly. If using a pickle fork, be careful not to damage the ball joint boot. If using a ball joint press, follow the manufacturer's instructions.
    • Once the ball joint is separated, remove the nut completely.
  6. Remove the Wishbone Bolts:
    • Locate the bolts that secure the wishbone to the vehicle's frame. These are usually located at the front and rear of the wishbone.
    • Use penetrating oil on the bolts and let it soak for a few minutes.
    • Loosen and remove the bolts. You may need to use a wrench on one side and a socket on the other to prevent the bolt from spinning.
  7. Remove the Old Wishbone:
    • With all the connections detached, carefully remove the old wishbone from the vehicle.
  8. Install the New Wishbone:
    • Position the new wishbone in place and align the bolt holes.
    • Install the bolts and tighten them loosely. Don't tighten them to the final torque specification yet.
  9. Connect the Ball Joint:
    • Insert the ball joint into the hub assembly.
    • Install the ball joint nut and tighten it to the manufacturer's specified torque. Use a torque wrench to ensure accurate tightening.
    • If necessary, install a new cotter pin through the ball joint stud and nut to secure it.
  10. Reinstall the Brake Caliper (if removed):
    • Reattach the brake caliper to the hub assembly using the bolts you removed earlier.
    • Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
  11. Reconnect the ABS Sensor (if applicable):
    • Reconnect the ABS sensor wire to its mounting clips on the wishbone and hub assembly.
  12. Reinstall the Wheel:
    • Mount the wheel back onto the hub.
    • Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
  13. Lower the Vehicle:
    • Use the jack to lift the car slightly, enough to remove the jack stand.
    • Remove the jack stand and carefully lower the car to the ground.
  14. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
    • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque in a star pattern.
  15. Tighten the Wishbone Bolts:
    • With the vehicle's suspension loaded (i.e., the car on the ground), tighten the wishbone bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial for ensuring proper suspension function and preventing premature wear of the bushings. This step is very important.
  16. Get a Wheel Alignment:
    • After replacing the wishbone, it's essential to get a professional wheel alignment. This will ensure that your car handles properly and that your tires wear evenly. Driving without a proper wheel alignment can lead to dangerous handling and costly tire replacements.

Important Tips and Safety Precautions

Before you jump into the wishbone replacement, here are a few extra tips and safety precautions to keep in mind. These will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a safe and successful repair.

  • Safety First: Always prioritize safety when working on your car. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Use jack stands to securely support the vehicle.
  • Penetrating Oil is Your Friend: Don't underestimate the power of penetrating oil. Apply it liberally to any stubborn nuts and bolts and let it soak in for a few minutes before attempting to remove them. This can save you a lot of time and effort, and prevent you from stripping the fasteners.
  • Torque Specifications are Crucial: Always use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts and bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can damage the components, while under-tightening can lead to them coming loose. Consult your car's repair manual for the correct torque values.
  • Don't Reuse Old Hardware: It's generally a good idea to replace any nuts, bolts, and cotter pins that you remove during the wishbone replacement. These components can weaken over time and may not be reliable if reused.
  • Inspect Other Suspension Components: While you're working on the suspension, take the opportunity to inspect other components such as the shock absorbers, springs, and tie rod ends. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it's best to replace them at the same time to save yourself time and effort in the long run.
  • Take Pictures: Before you start disassembling anything, take pictures of the suspension components. This can be helpful as a reference when you're putting everything back together.
  • Work Methodically: Keep track of all the parts you remove and label them if necessary. This will help you avoid confusion when you're reassembling everything.
  • If in Doubt, Seek Professional Help: If you're not comfortable performing the wishbone replacement yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic. It's better to pay a professional to do the job right than to risk damaging your car or injuring yourself.

After the Replacement

Once you've completed the wishbone replacement, there are a few things you should do to ensure that everything is working properly.

  • Test Drive: Take your Peugeot 107 for a test drive on a quiet road. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how the car handles. If you notice any problems, such as pulling to one side or excessive vibration, get the car checked out by a professional.
  • Wheel Alignment: As mentioned earlier, it's essential to get a professional wheel alignment after replacing the wishbone. This will ensure that your car handles properly and that your tires wear evenly.
  • Check the Torque: After driving the car for a few miles, recheck the torque on the wishbone bolts and lug nuts. This will ensure that they haven't come loose.

Replacing your Peugeot 107's wishbone might seem daunting at first, but by following these steps and taking your time, you can definitely handle it yourself. Just remember to prioritize safety, use the right tools, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Good luck, and happy wrenching!