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Posted by: jrrhdmust Jul 8 2013, 03:00 PM

So I thought I would write of my escapades this weekend. I continued on with the front suspension rebuild. This time is was the A arms.

I ordered the special tool to install the ball joints, although I had a little difficulty trying to use the chisel method to loosen them. I ended up soaking them in WD40 and using the install tool with an electric impact wrench and they came right off.

The bushings were a different story = mostly user error. So I bought the URO bushings to replace the originals. I have a little Harbor Freight chepo press. I heated them up like the instructions said, however my first effort I was right at the bottom of 180 degrees. Secondly I took the dish soap and lubed both parts as opposed to just one, and lastly I spent an inordinate amount of time setting the press - which probably let them cool further. Lastly, I bent the little ears on the main A arm trying to force the bushing in.

So I pressed the bushings out, pressed the little ears back into place, and reread the instructions.

The second time, I made sure my press was ready for action, and I used a block of wood using the length of the A Arm to press against, instead of the little ears. Secondly, I heated the rubber to 190 to 200, as opposed the 180-200, and I only lubed the main shaft. I made haste to the press (which is in the basement, as opposed to my kitchen), and the bushings pressed on without a hitch.

Hope this helps someone avoid my mistakes.

Posted by: andys Jul 8 2013, 03:08 PM

If I recall correctly, the URO instructional video says to put bushings in boiling water. That's how I did mine (and the soap), and they went on without a hitch.

Andys

Posted by: Retread Jul 9 2013, 02:04 PM

The Ball Joint tool that I have came from Baum Tools. The instructions specifically state it is for tighten / torquing only. Not to be used for loosening.

Use a pipe wrench to loosen the Ball Joint sleeve nut. Replace both sleeves if scratches offend you.


Trade your WD-40 in on AeroKroil from Kano Labs (found on the internet).

Posted by: dknechtly Jan 21 2016, 01:01 PM

I see you used the URO bushings. I'm torn between Elephant rubber, Rebel, and URO. Are these still performing OK? I'm pretty much planning on rubber since mine is a pure street car.

Posted by: Mark Henry Jan 21 2016, 01:14 PM

QUOTE(dknechtly @ Jan 21 2016, 02:01 PM)

Posted by: JmuRiz Jan 21 2016, 01:19 PM

If you go rubber, go with the Elephant.

Posted by: jmill Jan 21 2016, 04:18 PM

If you go with bushings check out Rebel Racing. I have their RSR set up.

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=273707