C3 Rear Strut Rods

[Gregory G.]

Is there an easier way of removing rear strut rod bushings instead of using the required J tools as shown in the 1970 service manual? Using a torch may work for the removal,but what do you use for the reinstallation of those bushings a press?Any suggestions.

[William C.]

Re: C3 Rear Strut Rods

A press works nicely for the installation of the bushings.

[Jack H.]

Re: C3 Rear Strut Rods

A hydraulic press for installing strut rod bushings is a MUST. Also, be sure to wipe the outside of the bushings with Never Sieze or the next time you go to replace the bushings you'll find them siezed to the ID of the strut rods and probably wind up having to 'peel' them out....

On pressing the fresh bushings in: take your time and be VERY careful to slowly start each bushing into the strut rod UNIFORMLY. They have a nasty habit of wanting to 'wander' off straight/true center when you start them into the hole and IF you keep pressing with the bushing off-center, you'll wind up crushing/flaring the bushing, have to press it out, discard it, and start with a fresh new one!

If this frightens you or you don't have a hydraulic press, then take the strut rods and fresh bushings to a local machine shop and pay them to do the installation for you!

[Dick W.]

Re: C3 Rear Strut Rods

I think that Jack has the right idea. Most people are not familar with pressing bushing in. Farm that job out to a machine shop that does a lot of press work.

[Gregory G.]

Re: C3 Rear Strut Rods

Farming that job out to a machine shop makes good sense.The rods I will install myself, then I will take the car to a wheel alignment shop when the work is completed.Thank you for all the advise.