front suspension install problems Options

[bcheney]

I have reconditioned the front suspension on my 75 914 2.0. everything has been powdercoated, a arms, carriers etc. I have installed new plastic poly bushings into the main carrier (the one closest to the steering rack). I am trying to install the a arm now and have had my ass properly kicked! I cannot get the a arm to slide into the bushing at the end closest to the steering carrier. I have tried constant pressure by hand arm and leg. I have tried tapping with a rubber mallet. The damn thing will not insert. It goes in about 1/4 - 1/2 inch and stops. Any tips???

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[Eric_Shea]

Am I readying this wrong?

The bushings go on the arm not the main carrier (or crossbar).

Bushings on the arm. Sleeves over the bushings (these may be the carrier you're talking about). Mount everything in place.

Now, that being said... if you powdercoated the bushing surface you may have an issue with the clearance. The arms are not what we would like in the "consistency" arena. You may have to sand down the powdercoating on that surface to get the bushing to slide on. If they are the Weltmeister "racing" bushings then you can get a brake cylinder hone at your FLAPS and hone the bushing to fit the arm. If they are the more malleable street bushings, you may have better luck sanding the arm.

Help?