F-85 4-4-2

1966 FSM states that "The bushings in the (rear) suspension arms can only be serviced by replacing the complete arms." I would think I can replace the bushings, as long as I use a spacer to prevent the (upper) arm from collapsing when I press them in; suggestions?

joe_padavano

I've replaced plenty of rear bushings. I never understood that note either. All eight rear bushings are the same P/N.

F-85 4-4-2

Thanks. Any suggestions on a spacer to hold the flanges apart?

junior supercar

can cut a piece of metal pipe the appropriate size and shape

joe_padavano

I've found a piece of angle iron to work really well.

F-85 4-4-2

I like that "angle". Thanks!

bry593

I use a piece of exhaust tubing, cut first for width of control arm, then cut again in half lengthwise so as to fit inside the control arm and prevent crush due to press.

BackInTheGame

I use a piece of Sched 40 black PVC pipe, 2" diameter. Works like a champ.

cdrod

x2 on the schedule 40 PVC pipe but get the solid wall pipe that's rated for pressure, not the foam-core, lightweight stuff from Home Depot. I did't have a press at the time and did mine with a ball-joint service kit from Harbor Freight.

F-85 4-4-2

I went the Sch 40 black iron route. Took the local Home Depot a few tries to get the right length, then cut it in half at home. Worked well. I needed the extra pieces anyway, for pushing & receiving on the press.

Run to Rund

The original stiff bushings were 388266 but they were superceded with the soft bushings. For a while Lakewood made some even a bit stiffer PN 20590. That is what I use for racing.

bry593

That is brilliant! Never occurred to me. Much easier to cut then steel! Thanks for the tip!

By the way, Moog bushings are a harder durometer than original. Moog claims this synthetic rubber material performs like urethane. I don't know about that, but they do work well and are problem free.

Schurkey

Better yet...install Polyurethane bushings, LEAVE THE ORIGINAL SHELLS IN PLACE, and you have no need for a press or "special tooling" to prevent the colllapse of the arms--because you aren't pressing the shells out.

One of several advantages to the Polyurethane bushings.

ronskal

I had metal fence post scrap (3 inch diameter maybe) that I cut into a C section to place between the ears, worked great.