Getting the bushings out isn't too hard but is much easier with a torch (or
something you have to heat them up...no, not a hair dryer) and an impact
hammer. Putting the new bushings in...that's either going to take a bushing
press (can be rented at most auto stores) or a stand-up press. Hammering in
the bushings isn't wise as you can easily damage them and/or the control
arm. On the alignment...yeah, no easy way to set that in the driveway with
the exception of the toe (with a tape measure).
If you can afford it, take the control arms off (upper and lower) and have a
local shop R&R the bushings for you...shouldn't cost much since you're
handing them the control arms and nothing else.
- Bernd
-----Original Message-----
From: Bill Pitz [mailto:dakota@billpitz.com]
Sent: Monday, June 04, 2007 11:35 PM
To: dakota-truck-moderator@bent.twistedbits.net
Subject: Re: DML: Squeaky bushings -- anyone make urethane??
Bernd D. Ratsch wrote:
>
> Took me about 6 hours total with complete R&R of all control arm
> bushings, balljoints, wheel hubs, front brakes, and aligning it after I
> was done. You can count on about 8 hours + alignment with a shop.
So here's a dumb question...
Is this something that I (someone of moderate mechanical abilities) can
do myself (sans alignment), given a weekend or two of time and patience?
Any special tools required?
Given that my Dak is no longer the daily driver, I don't really care if
it is out of commission in the garage for a weekend or two.
-Bill
-- Bill Pitz <bill@pitz.net> Penngrove, CA2006 Acura TSX 2000 Dodge Dakota SLT 4x4 4.7L 2007 Honda TRX420FE
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