Strut Rod Bushings, 70

[Robert Johnson]

I am confused. Have an original 70 small block, std. suspension. One of the strut rods was badly bent. Took them off, had it straightened, removed the old bushings (not paying a lot of attention) and ordered new ones. The new ones came, but they have outer as well as inner sleeves for pressing, however, the bushings I removed from the rods were just rubber against the strut rod and a metal inner sleeve, no outer. This is most likely a seriously dumb question, but I dont know where else to ask. What is the deal?

[Patrick H.]

Re: Strut Rod Bushings, 70

The new outer sleeve is to assist in pressing the new bushing into the strut rod. It would be rather difficult to push a rubber bushing into the strut rod end without it.

Basically, replacement amounts to lubricating the new outer sleeve and using a press or large vise to press the new bushing into place. Make sure that the bushing is "squared" in the hole, as putting it in cockeyed is going to make it quite tough.

If you need more info on the specifics of replacing these, let us know.

[Joe L.]

Re: Strut Rod Bushings, 70

Robert---

The original strut rod bushings were molded-in-place. It is not possible to mold-in-place service replacement strut rod bushings. Consequently, SERVICE strut rod bushings( GM # 3775762) for 63-74 strut rods have an outer steel shell to facilitate installation as Patrick pointed out. This outer steel shell is not visible when the strut rods are installed in the car so don't fret about "losing points" over it. The 63-74 strut rods, GM #3819205, were discontinued years ago so it's not possible to buy replacement strut rods for your car with the molded-in-place bushings unless you convert to the later 75-79 strut rod which is still available. However, this strut rod, GM #459076, has larger ends.

[Ed McGettigan]

Thanks!!

Thanks all!!! The new fuel pump is on and all appears to be working fine. I appreciate your assistance.

Next project - replace starter motor...I'll be posting a new question soon!