This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the radius arm bushings on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500, requiring suspension disassembly and specialized pressing tools.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Radius arm bushing (front) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Radius arm bushing (rear) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack at designated front lift point
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight at frame rails
6. Remove front wheel completely
7. Spray all suspension fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes
8. Photograph suspension assembly from multiple angles for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Support lower control arm
   Position a floor jack under the lower control arm near the ball joint to support the weight of the suspension. Raise jack just enough to take tension off the radius arm but do not lift the vehicle further.
2. 2

   Remove radius arm front mounting bolt
   Locate the front radius arm mounting point at the frame. Remove the mounting bolt and nut using appropriate sockets (typically 21mm or 24mm). Support the radius arm as the fastener is removed to prevent it from dropping suddenly.
3. 3

   Disconnect radius arm from control arm
   Locate the rear mounting point where the radius arm connects to the lower control arm or knuckle assembly. Remove the mounting bolt and nut. You may need to use a pry bar to separate the components if there is binding.
4. 4

   Remove radius arm from vehicle
   Carefully extract the radius arm from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting points for damage, corrosion, or elongated bolt holes. Clean all mounting surfaces with a wire brush if necessary.
5. 5

   Press out old front bushing
   Secure the radius arm in a hydraulic press or use a portable bushing press kit. Select the appropriate removal adapter that fits inside the old bushing. Position the arm so the bushing can be pressed out through the arm bore. Apply steady pressure to press the old bushing out completely. Inspect the arm bore for damage or scoring.
6. 6

   Press out old rear bushing
   Reposition the radius arm in the press to access the rear bushing location. Using the same technique, press out the rear bushing. Clean the bushing bore thoroughly with a wire brush and solvent to remove any rubber residue or corrosion.
7. 7

   Install new front bushing
   Apply a light coat of soapy water or approved bushing lubricant to the outer shell of the new front bushing (do not use petroleum-based products). Position the bushing at the arm bore opening, ensuring correct orientation if the bushing has directional markings. Select the appropriate installation adapter and press the bushing in until it is fully seated and flush with the arm.
8. 8

   Install new rear bushing
   Repeat the installation process for the rear bushing location. Ensure the bushing is oriented correctly and press until fully seated. Verify both bushings are properly installed and not cocked or partially seated.
9. 9

   Install radius arm to frame mount
   Position the radius arm at the front frame mounting location. Insert the mounting bolt and thread the nut by hand. Do not fully tighten at this time - leave fasteners finger tight to allow suspension articulation during installation.
10. 10

    Connect radius arm to control arm
    Align the rear of the radius arm with the control arm or knuckle mounting point. You may need to use the floor jack to adjust the control arm position for alignment. Insert the bolt and thread the nut by hand. Leave finger tight.
11. 11

    Load suspension to ride height
    Using the floor jack under the control arm, carefully raise the suspension to simulate normal ride height. This ensures bushings are torqued at the correct suspension position to prevent premature wear and binding.
12. 12

    Torque all radius arm fasteners
    With suspension at ride height, torque the front and rear radius arm mounting bolts to manufacturer specifications using a calibrated torque wrench. Since torque specifications are not available in the database, consult Rivian service documentation for exact values before proceeding. Typical values for this application range from 120-180 ft-lbs but must be verified.

Reassembly

1. Lower the floor jack slowly from under the control arm
2. Reinstall the wheel and thread lug nuts by hand
3. Lower vehicle to ground using floor jack
4. Torque wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern (typically 150 ft-lbs for Rivian EDV)
5. Remove jack stands and fully lower vehicle
6. Repeat entire procedure for opposite side if necessary

Verification

• Bounce the front end of the vehicle several times to settle the suspension
• Visually inspect all radius arm mounting points to ensure bolts are tight and properly seated
• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area and listen for any unusual noises from the suspension
• Verify steering feels normal with no binding or unusual resistance
• Check for proper suspension articulation by turning steering wheel full lock in both directions while stationary
• Schedule alignment check within 50 miles as suspension geometry may have shifted during repair

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