IanM

I'm attempting to remove my control arm caster pucks (thrust arm bushings). I built a tool to press them out, and the arms are off the car. Let the first one marinate in penetrating oil, then proceeded to snap the tool in half trying to press it out. The bushing didn't even budge. I dont want to heat the arm and risk damaging the balljoint end. My next option is a hydraulic press. Has anyone else had similar problems with these? Would like to get these Tarett bits installed.

cfjan

Cut off the rubber and remove the center. Then use a saw to cut a slit on the bushing... that's how the shop I go to does it..

AudiOn19s

Brings me back to my M3 days that's how we did rear trailing arm bushings.

Ian - it sounds crude but it really is the quickest and easiest way.

ScottArizona

That's the same way I removed my tranny mount bushings to install the torque solutions bushings. took 10 minutes.

IanM

Thanks guys. That was going to be option 3, but its now moved up the list. I had to do a similar thing on my old 944T many years ago, will need to be careful to not cut too deep!

993GT

I'll probably be doing the same method when I do mine, always works.
IMO, Best to make the cut towards the inside(pivot end) end of the LCA, in case a bit of the aluminum get nipped during the cutting it will cause the least effect to the strength of the arm(stress riser)

IanM

I'm having a heck of a time trying to cut the inside rubber bit so I can get the center out. Hardest rubber ever made, total pita. Any pointers or suggestions?

AudiOn19s

drill a hole in it. Then sawzall

IanM

Thanks, will report back. Been starting with the delicate tools, dremel etc, but slowly working towards the heavy artillery. I can imagine this is a much easier job on new lca's with no road mileage.

993GT

Tried a hole saw? Not looking forward to doing mine, such a dense/tight bushing

IanM

A hole saw is a great idea. However, I took the front arms to a friend who owns a machine shop, he used his press to push the centers out. After that it was very quick to cut a slit with a hacksaw and punch out the sleeves. Rears next.

IanM

Rob - the hole saw idea is brilliant. Don't know why I didn't think of that. I used a 1 7/8" hole saw to cut out the centers on my rear lca's. Was so easy, had the bushings out in a matter of minutes.

993GT

Awesome! glad it worked out good for you

Serge944

Another option is to use a threaded rod and press them out:

993GT

^the 'correct' way to do it. Serge, can you confirm my bushing OD measurement of 55mm?