Installed UCA, almost Disaster

[JamesWhite]

After replaced the rear coil with OME895E and adjusted front end, I decided to replace the UCA. Ordered LR UCA and installed it on last Saturday. Everything went smoothly during the installation. Drove about 30 miles (city road) in the evening and felt some metal clunk when applying brakes. I did some searches before sleep and read some complaints to LC UCA due to lack of lub. I was sure I had applied supplied grease to the bushings before installation and tried to recall all steps I did. I suddenly realized I forgot the last step---I did not tighten the lug nuts!

I tightened the nuts for the first thing next morning, of course the noise went away when I drove the car and apply brakes again. I still fear now because the outcome could be much worse if a wheel came off. I feel so lucky it did not happen. I am now looking for a shop for the alignment. Any suggestions in Houston area?

 

[TOY2G]

After replaced the rear coil with OME895E and adjusted front end, I decided to replace the UCA. Ordered LR UCA and installed it on last Saturday. Everything went smoothly during the installation. Drove about 30 miles (city road) in the evening and felt some metal clunk when applying brakes. I did some searches before sleep and read some complaints to LC UCA due to lack of lub. I was sure I had applied supplied grease to the bushings before installation and tried to recall all steps I did. I suddenly realized I forgot the last step---I did not tighten the lug nuts!

I tightened the nuts for the first thing next morning, of course the noise went away when I drove the car and apply brakes again. I still fear now because the outcome could be much worse if a wheel came off. I feel so lucky it did not happen. I am now looking for a shop for the alignment. Any suggestions in Houston area?

WOW... Close call God had your back on that one.

Way to do the right thing and retrace your steps to insure proper installation.

 

[GrantK]

We all make mistakes from time to time. Just be glad you found and fixed yours before it caused an accident. Rest assured, you will double check everything you do from now on.

Also, if you have a shop do work on your truck always check their work because they are human and can make mistakes as well.

 

[KCcarguy]

I did the same thing. It can be easy to do that when you're by yourself and eager to finish up......AND a newb like me. Fortunately, I only got down the street. Lesson learned.