<VV> Front rebuild: Pull crossmember or not?

[Joe West]

I didn't find it difficult at all to either remove or press in the control
arm bushings.  I used a socket and a ball joint press available from Harbor
Freight ($30 or so)... Worked like a champ.  If you don't want to purchase a
ball joint press (looks like a LARGE  C-Clamp) simply go to checker auto or
auto zone and rent one for free.

Joe West


On 3/7/05 1:23 PM, "Mike Kost" <vairmike at sbcglobal.net> wrote:

> David,
> 
> I think you'll find it easier to remove and replace the upper and lower
> arms safely with the suspension in the car. I just did that this fall
> with no problem. The toughest part if you don't have the right tools is
> replacing the bushings on the arms once you get them off of the car. I
> had Ken Hand do my upper arms since I didn't have a press or the proper
> spacer to do the job. The lower arm also needs a spacer to do it right
> without getting the bushing in cocked.
> 
> Mike Kost
> 
> Macdonald David wrote:
> 
>> I'm planning on putting new ball joints (upper and
>> lower) and new bushings (upper and lower) on my late
>> model. 
>> 
>> Looking at the project it seemed to me that I may be
>> better off pulling out the whole crossmember, doing
>> the work and then reinstalling it.
>> 
>> I'd like some input on the best approach. Is pulling
>> the crossmember a good idea?
>> 
>> Thanks
>> 
>> David
>> '65 Canadian Corsa 140
>> Acton, MA
>>  
>> 
> 
>