trailing arm bushing install Options

[Amphicar770]

OK, finally starting to put things back together. New bearings went into freshly powder coated trailing arms this evening.

I then went to install the new rubber bushings and pivot shaft from Elephant Racing and here is where I am running into problems even with their tool set.

Per their instructions you set the bushings in the trailing arm and then using a pipe clamp and the provided tools, you soap the heck out of the parts and insert the pivot shaft through the one bushing and push it all the way through with pressure from the pipe clamp.

Works well for the first few inches until the pivot shaft starts pulling the bushing down through the trailing arm. Getting everything back out was not fun, could only do it using my press.

In watching a redneck video His description) the guy seems to put the pivot shaft on first and then push the bushings in at both ends. First seems to go easy, second he helps along with a hammer and a tool to fit over the bushing.

Anyway, suggestions on best approach welcomed. I really figured that by paying a premium for the set with the tools that this would be simple. Arrrgh.

Thanks,

Mike

[Amphicar770]

I just received a reply from Elephant Racing. The comment that it may take a few tries is definitely a yellow flag to anyone attempting this. As noted, in the likely event you have to reverse things I do not see how you can do so without a press.

If you do not have the tools, having someone local do the work may be a good choice. The problem with shipping to Elephant or elsewhere is that the arms are heavy and bulky so shipping would probably be very expensive. Will also be interesting to hear from those who have used rubber bushings from other sources.

I do not know if Elephant frequents 914World but I suggested that they may want to check out / respond to this message thread directly.

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HI Michael

Try inserting the bushing into the arm with only water on the OD. Then
make sure you have soap on the entire length of the shaft. This helps the
bushing stay in position in the arm, and the shaft less inclined to pull it
in.

I may also be helpful to reverse the direction of the shaft briefly if you
see it starting to pull the bushing in.

It may take a few tries to get it right.

We do offer the installation as a service.

regards
Chuck Moreland