fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

From the perspective of getting older, and wanting to work smarter, not harder...

Are there any fancy tools/press kits or something out there that make it easier replacing upper and lower control arm shafts? without getting a big standing press?

I found something online called the "RideTech Bushing Installation & Removal Tool" - there's a youtube video. Maybe this is our secret weapon. anyone used it?

What about spindles?

We can manage ball joints with the ol' c-clamp press. That's what cheater bars and patience are for. But, hey maybe there's some new-fangled thing there too.

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

I am getting ready to tear apart my front end so I am waiting for information from the experts here.

Bill

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

the factory shafts dont have pressed bushings they screw in just a big socket and impact wrench

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

ah... checked it out.. looks like a 1 3/8 and 1 5/8 socket will do the job.

For some reason, I still seem to remember it not being "that" simple?

maybe it is?

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

I had my 300-pound son stand on the lower a-arms while I unscrewed those nuts, using a 3 foot long handle. Maybe that's what you're thinking about it not being "simple".

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

I tore my drivers side down last night on my 68. I have never done it before and it wasn't to bad. It took about an hour and a half with just basic hand tools and a 3/4"breaker bar and the big sockets. just used the floor jack to preload the lower a-arm before I removed the spindle nut. A big hammer got it loose. Lots of info on this in this forum.

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

I got one of these to change ball joints. Actually went harbor freight for it. Strong and works well.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/4-In-1-C-Fr...QAAOSwV0NbGe-v

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

.
A large pipe wrench is cheaper than the big socket and works just as well. Plus you can use it later for other projects, where that socket will likely not get used again!

Break those loose while the arms are still attached to the frame.

Hth,

-klb

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

I have done a few.

Big muscles
A good 3/4" breaker bar or ratchet
The right sockets for the lower shafts
A short handle sledge to get the ball joints and tie rods loose from the spindle and center link
A good grinder
An air chisel
Ball joint press
Good grease gun
Some 90 degree zerk fittings for the ones you cant get the gun on

I tried to use a huge crescent wrench and pipe wrench to replace my control arm shafts. That was a nightmare.


Go to harbor freight and get the right stuff - you will only use it a couple times.

Re: fancy suspension removal tools - spindles, control arm shafts
 

My 1 5/8 & 1 3/8 sockets I got at oreillies auto parts for about $10.00 each. Auto zone also has them for about the same price. For what we spent on the front end rebuild and front brake conversion this is nothing especially if you mess up the new stuff with the wrong tool. You can "borrow" the pitman arm puller and ball joint press at the same places for a deposit. Just make sure they are in good shape and not bent before you take them or make sure there is documentation stating this or you could end up owning the tool.