A Arm Rebuild, Bushings and ball joint Options

[jrrhdmust]

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.

[andys]

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

[Retread]

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).

[dknechtly]

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.

[Mark Henry]

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.

After seeing how low mile stock rubber distorts I'd look into bushings.

[JmuRiz]

If you go rubber, go with the Elephant.

[jmill]

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

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