MSUGTO

Well after replacing my harmonic balancer, I got a good look at my control arm bushing while working in the engine bay and the up drivers side control arm bushings have almost slid completely out of the arm and down the shaft that they are on. Looks like I've got a winter time project ahead of me! Got a few questions though:

Towards the end of the year I'll be moving from Austin to Phoenix, any harm in driving the car as is? I'd rather go through the suspension after the move and honestly, I couldn't tell that much of a difference in how it drove after noticing the bushing.

For the rebuild I plan on going with a rubber bushing kit that's available from one of the vendors that has all the bells and whistles, ball joints, tie rod ends, etc. In addition to that, I'll be going with Bilstein Sport shocks since I'd prefer a firm ride. What springs do you recommend I go with to match those shocks that won't drop the ride height?

hugie82

If the bushing was completely gone or pushed out I would say don't drive it but other than that ...take your time. If you have old tires, take even more time...

MSUGTO

Part of it is still there but it's definitely time for a rebuild. Thing is I know I could do the rebuild over the course of two weekends or so and working in the evenings during the week between them but me being me, I want to get the pieces media blaster, prime and paint them. I think I may wait until the move to AZ to rebuild it.

kjr6306

While you are at it, might as well take a look at the steering components. Hoses, cylinder, box, control valve and pump. Baby it to Phoenix and take the time to do the job right.

MSUGTO

Good point, will take a look at the box. Will definitely trailer it out to AZ then get to work.

Rally68

Some free advice that's probably worth what it cost ya: Don't buy suspension wear items (bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends etc.) in a no-name kit. You want Moog components. I have had to replace a couple bushings and a ball joint from a kit that was advertised as "premium heavy-duty" parts.

MSUGTO

Thanks for the heads up! I wasn't aware that Moog made bushings too, will keep an eye out for them.

Any idea what I should do for springs? Can I use what I've got?

AZDoug

As long as both springs are the same height when out of the car, and feel similar when weight is applied, sand them and paint them and reinstall.

If you decide to get any powder coating of the control arms, etc done, go to Glendale Powder Coatings, ask for Rick. Fair prices, exc quality, fast turn around on normal colors.

Doug

CanadaGrant

One of the worst things in a C3 is the steering box. Check all your ball joints then go to the box. It's like a two inch dead spot in the wheel.

speedreed8

Rockauto.com has Moog suspension parts ....

lvmyvt76

have your steering box rebuilt by a fellow forum member by the name of GTR????, he does a great job at a fair price!!

Also, check the brakes, wheel bearings( repack them, new seals etc) ball joints, shocks, brakes hoses etc etc!

MSUGTO

It's getting to be that time, I've got the bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and other components purchased. Now I'm looking to purchase the other suspension items and I'm leaning towards VB&P's Street & Slalom kit. My question is should I go with a higher spring rate rear spring instead of the rear sway bar?