Using a press to install control arm bushings...
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 3,365
Likes: 5
From: Lake Villa IL
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Using a press to install control arm bushings...
How do you guys do it? Because of the awkward shape of the control arm, I'm having a hard time stabilizing the arm enough to press the bushings. I was able to install the upper control arm bushings, and one of the lowers, but the last one is really giving me fits.
Any suggestions? Thanks.
Any suggestions? Thanks.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 3,286
Likes: 8
From: San Jose California
Re: Using a press to install control arm bushings... (joeveto)
Joe,
Without remembering the specific gyrations, I used blocks of aluminum of different thicknesses bought at a local scrap metal dealer. I also purchased a 3/4" socket drive set, actually 2 sets for about $35 each from Harbor Freight which worked great for pushing the bearings in place and as support blocks.
The hydraulic press I used is a 20 ton also purchased from Habor Freight.
Chuck
Without remembering the specific gyrations, I used blocks of aluminum of different thicknesses bought at a local scrap metal dealer. I also purchased a 3/4" socket drive set, actually 2 sets for about $35 each from Harbor Freight which worked great for pushing the bearings in place and as support blocks.
The hydraulic press I used is a 20 ton also purchased from Habor Freight.
Chuck
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 922
Likes: 0
From: Maine
Re: Using a press to install control arm bushings... (Chuck Harmon)
The other part that's important is to properly support between the ends of the control arm i.e. so that installation force won't bend the control arm. Different folks have used different stuff: I used some hardwood shaped to fit. Your other option is to pay $20 to the local ga-rage to do it.
Racer
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 485
Likes: 0
From: MESA, AZ, USA
Re: Using a press to install control arm bushings... (joeveto)
I used 1 1/2 inch pipe, or there abouts, cut to length and then cut in half to support the two side of the A arm. The metal is so soft it'll bend if you look hard at it. Even with care I slightly bent one of mine and had to straighten it. Use lub and I've seen recommendations to put the bushings in the freezer before you press them in. Slow and easy is the key.
Andy
Andy
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 65,492
Likes: 230
From: Orange Park Florida
Re: Using a press to install control arm bushings... (joeveto)
I use a CP711 impact 'hammer' and forgetaboutit...not much reason to ding the arms up, dependng on the tip, but the bushings go in and out really easy....
GENE
GENE
