SYNERGY MFG. 870 INDUSTRIAL WAY, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA (805) 242-0397
PPM-8553-01 DODGE HD ADJUSTABLE LENGTH UPPER
CONTROL ARM 4X4 DODGE 1500, 2500, 3500
GENERAL NOTES:
These instructions are also available on our website; www.synergymfg.com. Check the website before
you begin for any updated instructions and additional photos for your reference.
The installation of these control arms will help restore caster to factory specs up to 3” lifted trucks
Note, some early models from 1994-1999 will feature 12mm (1/2”) bolts. Trucks which feature this
smaller hardware will require drilling out of the upper control arm mounts to 9/16” for proper
installation.
1. The control arms are the same left and right.
2. Remove the existing upper control arms. If you are just replacing the upper control arms, they can be
replaced one at a time with the vehicle sitting on level ground, without removing the tires & wheels or any
other suspension part.
3. The passenger frame side upper control arm bolt (Blue arrow in IMG 4.1 below) on most vehicles will be
installed from the inside of the frame. Thus removal of the bolt will require either cutting & replacing the
bolt or dropping the exhaust down from the truck for bolt removal. Refer to your factory service manual for
exhaust removal as it will vary depending on year.
4. Orient the control arms with the Johnny joint at the frame side and the pinch bolt pointed down as shown
below.
5. We recommend installing the arms at their shortest (factory) length ~ 16.50”
IMG 4.1
6. Reuse the factory mounting bolts.
**NOTE** 8553-01 control arms feature joints which utilize 14mm (9/16”) hardware.
If vehicle is equipped with 12mm (1/2”) hardware, drill out factory control arm mounts to
9/16” and source new Gr8 mounting hardware or factory 14mm bolts for installation.
7. Tighten the factory control arm bolts to the following spec:
14mm (9/16” bolts) – 125 ft-lbs
8. Adjust upper arms for proper caster setting; between 5.0-8.0 degrees depending on preference. For a 3”
lifted vehicle, we recommend the following control arm lengths for proper axle location and caster setting:
Front Lower Control Arm: 19”
Front Upper Control Arm: 17”
9. Once satisfied with control arm lengths, tighten pinch bolt to 50 ft-lbs. Make sure the bushings are neutral
in the mounts at ride height prior to tightening the pinch bolts.
Installation is Complete
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