Replacing upper control arms: cut off old bolts?

Looking to replace my UCAs with JBAs. What’s the verdict on cutting the old bolts out to save time and effort? I want to use new bolts anyways, and see a lot of information on 2nd and 3rd gen’s cutting out the old bolts with a sawzall; but I don’t see much advice given for 1st gens: what should I do?

 

The drivers side one is the only one that's a little tough to get out due to lack of space, but I just pulled the battery out and was able to get it out without much struggle. Unless the current ones are seized, I'd just pull them like normal and skip the cutting. I can't see a situation where it would save you tons of time unles they're siezed. Not to mention, you still will have to finagle the drivers side in so pulling the battery is still something you'll probably have to do.

The only time people have to consistently cut bolts on 1st gens is the LCA bolts, not the UCA's.

 

As mentioned- only cut if seized. You're likely going to have to loosen / remove the two front SRS (airbag) sensors to install the new bolts anyway. Not saving any time by cutting. The SRS sensors the yellow sensors below the air filter, and battery. Disconnect the battery and wait 10 minutes before touching the sensors.

 

Bolts won’t come out without lifting the cab or cutting some metal off?

 

Options:

-Bend the inner fender sheet metal to remove that bolt. (Most places do this method)
-Un-bolt the Cab and shift it out of the way. (6 Bolts hold the cab to the frame) You can do one side at a time and you don't need to completely remove the cab bolts. (Just wiggle it) Be careful of the rear part of the cab hitting the front of the bed!
-Cut off the old bolts and re-install new bolts from the rear. (Not the best option)

 

You should be able to pry back that portion of the cab and get the bolt to move past it. I was able to free up my bolts by just using a hammer to yank on the sheet metal of the cab.