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I bought the poly control arm bushings from Vette Brakes and am looking for a way to install the sleeves. Is it possible to do this correctly with a hammer and a block of wood or do I need a press of some sort? They look easier to install then the rubber bushings but I would still like to know before I attempt it.
Also I saw a tool that looks like a giant 'C' clamp on a TV show a couple of weeks ago to the install bushings. Anyone know how well this works or where I can get it? Any help/info/tips are GREATLY appreciated!!
Re: Poly Control Arm Bushing Sleeves.............. (BSeery)
Bseery,
Unfortunately, I messed one of the sleeves up when I took the rubber bushing out, so I took them all out. I wanted everything to be the same, but now I'm thinking that was a mistake.................it isn't the first and I'm sure it won't be the last!!
Re: Poly Control Arm Bushing Sleeves.............. (74L82AirRoadster)
Yes you can do it with a hammer and some CRC... But it wont be easy.
Most likely the sleves in the top arms wil pop out rather easily, bu the bottoms will be a *(&*&%^#$@#@!
With the proper size socket, you can intall the new bushings without a problem as well. Just be sure that they are seated straight and flush to the arm. :yesnod:
From: Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean people aren't out to get me...
St. Jude Donor '09
Re: Poly Control Arm Bushing Sleeves.............. (Mike69)
I bought this tool when I did my front bushings:
I think it was called a Control Arm Service Kit.
I got it from J.C. Whitney for about $75. This was after a local shop told me they no longer had the equipment to press them out. Another reason I do most of my own work.
I thought the tool was well worth the $$. You can remove & install the sleeves. Using the C-clamp you can vary the rate at which torque is applied. Install was the same. Don't get me wrong---it took some time and patience but I got it done.
Re: Poly Control Arm Bushing Sleeves.............. (1970 Stingray)
Mike69,
Thanks for the info, I'm glad to see someone has done it that way!! It looked like it could be possible, but I figured I'd ask before I tried it myself!!
1970 Stingray,
That's exactly the tool I was looking for!! I think I'll try the hammer way first, and if doesn't work out like I want it to, the tool will be ordered ASAP!!
Re: Poly Control Arm Bushing Sleeves.............. (74L82AirRoadster)
As an FYI, I found the best way to remove the old rubber bushing is to drill (3/16 bit I think) around the bushing. This takes a while, but the bushing comes out in pieces and no need for a press of any kind. Since the rubber sleeves stay in place, the new poly bushings just slide into place.