Rear Control Arm removal
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Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
From: Friendswood Texas
Rear Control Arm removal
I am in the process of rebuilding my rear suspensionon a '74 /350/4 speed The bolt bolt that goes through the rear control arm bushing is frozen in place. I have used WD40 along with a hammer and punch but it won't budge. Also How does one install the new bolt? there isn't enough room to get behind the frame.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 2,041
Likes: 0
From: Wichita, KS
Re: Rear Control Arm removal (bmizell)
First you've got to get the old bolt out! Make sure that the trailing arm is raised so that it doesn't put pressure on the bolt. When I removed mine I sprayed it with Liquid Wrench at least twice a day for 3 days before I tried to remove it. From there it's hammer and punch action.
When you're ready to install a new bolt you'll notice that there is a smaller diameter end on the bolt. On mine I put a piece of vacuum hose through the hole from the outside and stuck it on the end of the bolt then put the bolt in place in the frame. Slowly pulling the hose and wiggling the bolt got it through. Others have drilled the small end of the bolt and used wire in the same mannor.
When you're ready to install a new bolt you'll notice that there is a smaller diameter end on the bolt. On mine I put a piece of vacuum hose through the hole from the outside and stuck it on the end of the bolt then put the bolt in place in the frame. Slowly pulling the hose and wiggling the bolt got it through. Others have drilled the small end of the bolt and used wire in the same mannor.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 1,162
Likes: 17
Re: Rear Control Arm removal (bmizell)
You'll need something stronger than WD40 - try PB Blaster or Kroil. Some people have managed to remove the bolt by soaking it in penetrating oil each day for several days and giving it a periodic whack with a hammer. If you have a compressor, you might also try an impact hammer.
None of this worked for me. Like many, I had to break out the Sawz-All and cut through the shims and bolt. Not an easy job, but the good news is - once you've done this, every other repair or rebuild on your car will be a piece of cake.
There is room to insert the bolt through the frame - I used needle nose pliars.
Good luck with the project.
Mike
None of this worked for me. Like many, I had to break out the Sawz-All and cut through the shims and bolt. Not an easy job, but the good news is - once you've done this, every other repair or rebuild on your car will be a piece of cake.
There is room to insert the bolt through the frame - I used needle nose pliars.
Good luck with the project.
Mike
