C3:Lower A arm bushing insertion hint

[Steve L.]

I am inserting these bushings using a 20 ton press but find it's a fiddly job since the bushing are going in off center and not aligning with the second hole. I keep having to stop, re-align and set up again. I've done one(the front one) and starting a second with the same problem.

The shaft isn't in place until I do the back ones. These are the rubber bushings. I am using a support in between the front and back.

Any hints on keeping them going in straight. Maybe I'm just not aligning the press and the A-arm correctly.

Freezing the bushing is useless since it doesn't take long to warm up again, particularily with all of this.

[Steven G.]

Re: C3:Lower A arm bushing insertion hint

Cleaning A-arms and lubing where bushings are pressed in can make job easier if you haven't done so already. Steve

[Steve L.]

Re: C3:Lower A arm bushing insertion hint

Thanks Steve,
I'll try a little lub. These arms have been cleaned up adn painted already.

[Harmon C.]

Re: C3:Lower A arm bushing insertion hint

If you have paint in the hole where the bushing goes remove it. I have found some jobs a big press just causes trouble. Less pressure could be your friend.

[Rich P.]

Re: C3:Lower A arm bushing insertion hint

I have learned from old schoolers 25 years ago not to use a press while installing control arm bushings. I clean the holes out on the arms, debur the shafts grease everything up and use a hand held sledge with these bushing installers. I was told that the shock of the hammer puts out a much greater force than a press can for you. Also you know when the bushing is fully seated by the sound change when hammering and also the splat of grease that comes out from under the lip of the bushing.
You can finess the bussing in much easier with this method. I have installed thousands upon thousands of bushings with these and the only time I have a problem is when I'm rushing and don't properly prep all the parts.
You also can use round tubing or large impact sockets for this.