metal bushing install strut rod

[Frank K.]

What method is used to install nos bushings in a c3 strut rod?

[Bob R.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

They press in, If you don't have a press you can use a couple of sockets and a vise to remove the old ones and install the new ones.

[Joe L.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

They press in, If you don't have a press you can use a couple of sockets and a vise to remove the old ones and install the new ones.

Bob and Frank------


If the rods still have the original vulcanized-in-place bushings, you need to press them out followed by thorough cleaning of the orifices with a small wire wheel on a drill. You need to remove all of the rubber. Then, just press in the new bushings. You can use just a socket as a press tool. However, most of the Corvette vendors sell a special tool for this job and it's of modest cost.

I do not recommend the use of bushings which do not have an outer steel shell. All GM replacement bushings do have the outer steel shell.

[Gary R.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

As your title lists, these are the sleeved replacements so follow Joe's advice to get them clean. I machined up a simple 2 step shaft that fits the ID and OD of the sleeve to press them in. You might be able to use a strong vise but I recommend a press. Watch that you don't press out the center sleeve, keep them equal side to side.

[Mike E.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

If you have room for and are a tool junky like me this press worked really well. It's of course Made in China but today what's not?

I've also used if for a couple other non-automotive issues around the house when my irrigation pump needed new bearings press on the shaft.

http://www.harborfreight.com/20-ton-...ess-32879.html

If your on their mailing list usually find a 20% off coupon that gets the net cost down to $135+ tax.

Mike

[Gary R.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

Mike I use that same press. The cylinder blew out after about 2 months. I installed another Chinese jack, this one from Graingers. Maybe they have the better Chinese junk, I dunno but it has lasted about 8-9 years now. I still wish I had the 60 ton Dake press we used when I was rebuilding Bridgeport Mills close to 40 years ago.

[Joe L.]

Re: metal bushing install strut rod

If you have room for and are a tool junky like me this press worked really well. It's of course Made in China but today what's not?

I've also used if for a couple other non-automotive issues around the house when my irrigation pump needed new bearings press on the shaft.

http://www.harborfreight.com/20-ton-...ess-32879.html

If your on their mailing list usually find a 20% off coupon that gets the net cost down to $135+ tax.

Mike

Mike-------


It's possible to get a US manufactured press. However, the cost will be $1,000+. For a hobbyist, this is totally impractical.

I use a Harbor Freight 20 ton A-frame press which I purchased about 25 years ago (this model is no longer available). It's all Chinese but, for my purposes, it's worked just fine with no problems whatsoever. Of course, my need for it is extremely rare. Obviously, for a hobbyist, the occasions for use of a hydraulic press are few and far between.