How to remove suspension bushings?????? Arrgh! | FerrariChat
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How to remove suspension bushings?????? Arrgh!

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by plugzit, Jul 14, 2009.

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  1. plugzit

    plugzit F1 Veteran
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    Dec 1, 2004
    7,789
    Redondo Beach, CA
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    Bruce Bogart
    #1 plugzit, Jul 14, 2009
    I'm replacing the outer upper rear suspension bushings in my 348.....if I can get the old ones out! I had to cut the durnburn bolt out as it was siezed and it appears the bushings are as well. To complicate matters, the inner bolts are siezed too, so it doesn't seem that I can get the a-arm off the car without further destruction. Unfortunately the mounts are welded on the car instead of bolted as are the lowers. The upright is off the car but the a-arm is still on. Any suggestions? Am I missing something? Anybody with experience at this with a secret to share? Helllllpp!
     
  2. fatbillybob

    fatbillybob Two Time F1 World Champ
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    Aug 10, 2002
    29,244
    socal
    #2 fatbillybob, Jul 14, 2009
    What!??? I need pictures. Been there done that remember my custom delrin suspension using the old bushing metal pieces I recycled? The a-arms should come right off when you unbolt. then you bring the arms to my house and we press the bushings guts out with my press.
     
  3. plugzit

    plugzit F1 Veteran
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    Bruce Bogart
    #3 plugzit, Jul 14, 2009
    Will do pics tomorrow. Of course the upper a-arm will come off when the bolts come out, if only the bolts will come out of the bushings. The inner bolts are still siezed in the bushings! I could wail away at them, but they would mushroom and still not come out. Therefore, I'm trying to change the outer bushings without removing the a-arm. I was able to cut the bolts on the outers with the Sawzall (good tool!) Okay, maybe I can wail, cut, punch???? Your thoughts are appreciated.
     
  4. Jeff Pintler

    Jeff Pintler Formula Junior

    Jul 20, 2005
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    Richland
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    Jeff Pintler
    #4 Jeff Pintler, Jul 15, 2009
    Wow....using a sazaLL TO CUT THINGS APART! Maybe this is something worth being careful with. When I replaced all the busings on my TR, I machined a piece of pipe to support the a arm and a piece of pipe the same size of the bushing and use a press. You can get a cheap 5 ton or even 1 ton press and be careful. Right before the bushing starts slidding out you have to decide to cover and protect your face or private parts. Another thing that helps is a product call KROIL OIL in a spray can......it really works on rusted stuff. Do not try to melt out the rubber. Go slow and good luck.


    Jeff Pintler
    89 348tb, 86tr
     
  5. fatbillybob

    fatbillybob Two Time F1 World Champ
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    #5 fatbillybob, Jul 15, 2009
    WEll old bushings are toast anyway. Change all the bushings and get back some handling. You will be surprised at the difference. I think this is one reason people say old 348's are twitchy. The 348 suspension is very tuneable and that means small changes have big effects. I say wd40, heat and a good wack should do it. That combo has never failed me. I'm free thursday do you want some help or to be HECKLED? I'll call Vince we'll come over... supervise and drink your beer.
     
  6. PAP 348

    PAP 348 Ten Time F1 World Champ
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    Dec 10, 2005
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    #6 PAP 348, Jul 16, 2009
    Lol!! You are such nice blokes!!! :p:p
     
  7. fatbillybob

    fatbillybob Two Time F1 World Champ
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    Aug 10, 2002
    29,244
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    #7 fatbillybob, Jul 16, 2009
    I've been waiting for a phone call all day. I don't think he liked the idea of me drinking all his beer.
     
  8. No Doubt

    No Doubt Seven Time F1 World Champ

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    #8 No Doubt, Jul 16, 2009
    He's just waiting until after he's eaten enough pizza first, then he'll call you!
     
  9. PAP 348

    PAP 348 Ten Time F1 World Champ
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    Pap
    #9 PAP 348, Jul 16, 2009

    I think you are both right!! :p:p
     
  10. It's Ross

    It's Ross Formula 3

    Jul 30, 2007
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    Barrington, Ill. USA
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    Ross
    #10 It's Ross, Jul 16, 2009
    PB Blaster is agood penetrating oil that might help.
    I bought my first 3# hammer because of bolts seized in the sleeve of a bushing.
    Heat and brute force are your only friends now. Good luck.
     

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