I looked and looked for a method to install the control arm bushings on my 87 coupe and could not find any. there were plenty of write ups on how to remove them but not on actual installation. two different local shops flat out told me they didn't feel like doing it. so i was on my own.
so i got to thinking - i remember having made a puller for the install of my rear wheel bearing and figured hmmm, there might be a solution there.
so i got out the puller and had a eureka moment. i went to home depot and bought a 36" x 5/8" threaded rod, a 2" x 1 1/4" pvc reducer, some 3" square washers and nuts to fit. actually i accidentally bought one nut so i had to improvise with a vise grip.
i used oem rubber bushings since my car is for street. the instructions say to heat the bushings in boiling water and i used liquid soap to lube them.
these are the parts:
bushings before they went on:
i tried to slip both ends at once but that became a hassle so i ended up doing one end at a time
the pvc slips over one end as one of the washers holds the other (yes, i should have used another nut but it was late and h.d. was closed)
you need to be quick about it because once the rubber cools off it will stick and become difficult, which is exactly what i was trying to avoid.
and viola. here is the end result. really pretty easy and quick to do
i really hope this helps at least one pelican out there
