During control arm bushing installation, what must be avoided to prevent issues?

Prepare for the Automotive Service Technician Period 1 exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Preserving the control arm’s straight geometry during bushing installation is essential. Distorting the control arm while pressing in or seating the bushing can tilt or twist the arm, changing suspension geometry and causing incorrect camber, caster, and toe, along with binding and premature bushing wear. To prevent this, support the arm properly, use correct tooling and alignment so the bore and bushing stay square, and apply load evenly without bending the arm. The other points—over-tightening the bolt, lubricating the bushing, or installing with the vehicle on jacks—can cause issues in their own right, but they don’t address the crucial risk of distorting the arm during installation.