Posted by Ron S. on January 03, 1999 at 12:34:43:
In Reply to: Re: Front end rebuild question re strut-bar bushings. posted by T.L. on January 03, 1999 at 00:32:10:
Yep, I agree! I was assuming "rotten" 20+ yr old OEM rubber ones (that's why I replaced mine)!
: All the front end parts affect handling; I just don't think it would be that noticable with the stock strut-rod bushings if everything else is replaced. Assuming that the old strut-rod bushings are in good condition...
: : If you remove the 'front' nut you will see that what's holding the cap on is a "crush sleeve". It is designed to 'crush' when the nut is tightened to keep the "caps'' from 'moving' back and forth. It is a PITA but they do come off. After removing the strut rods, you'll need to use a hammer and chisel (or "screwchisel"), and probably a few "encouraging" words, to "uncrush" it and the caps will come off. The bushing kit should've come with new ones to replace them.
: : It DOES make a difference in your handling, these bushings control the 'caster' of your front end (the rotation of the spindle's axis thruogh the ball joints) as viewed from the side:
: : <---+--->
: : BJ
: : SPINDLE
: : BJ
: : <---+--->