[ba] replacing subframe bushings

[Arun Rao]

Here's another trick I used to get the old bushings *out* -- when you
have the subframe out (and outside the garage, in a well-ventilated
area, as they say!), point a propane torch at the bushing.  Given that
it's soaked in oil, it will actually catch fire and just drop out of
the mounting hole. 15 minutes of work, and a lot easier than trying to
hammer it out.

(I did it on my '91 200Q, though -- I have no familiarity with the car
in question).

Also, a 12-ton hydraulic press is about $100 at Harbor Freight -- or
you can have mine for $50!

-Arun "Pyromaniac" Rao

On Sunday, August 17, 2003, at 08:06  PM, quattro + 5 or 8 = fun wrote:

> I have done that subframe several times.  Very easy to remove.  If you
> decide to do it yourself, be sure to FREEZE the new bushings before you
> press them in.  They will go in much easier.  Replace the hardware.
> Tighten
> everything when  it is sitting on the ground.  I don't remember what I
> paid
> for the bushings, but if memory serves me right, it was around $100
> for the
> set of bushings.  My guess is that since the car is an 82, the
> bushings are
> more then ready for a change.  You will be amazed how much better
> everything
> feels.  One cause of the rattle could be worn out bushings.  But,
> usually
> they make a popping sound.  And yes, do the control arms too.  If you
> are so
> inclined, Blau has Delrin for about 90$.  I love them.  Would never go
> back
> to rubber.
>
> HTH,
>
>
> Shane
>
>
> Bay Area, CA
>
> Audis, MBZs & a black sheep BMW.
>
> BUY ME NOW:  http://www.arias.net/%7Ebcpi/pics/cars/other/BMW/BMW/
> PARTING:  1972 Mercedes Benz 280 SE 4.5
>
>> From: Wyatt's Dad's Audi <audion at serversmiths.com>
>> Date: Sun, 17 Aug 2003 13:15:29 -0700
>> To: 'ba-audifans' <ba-group at audifans.com>
>> Subject: Re: [ba] replacing subframe bushings
>>
>>
>> On Sunday, August 17, 2003, at 12:44 PM, quattro + 5 or 8 = fun wrote:
>>
>>> What car
>>>
>>>
>>> Shane
>>>
>>
>> what?? you guys aren't taking notes?? and remembering what car I
>> have??
>> ;-).
>>
>> Sorry, shoulda thought before I posted.
>>
>> Anyway, it's an 82 Coupe. I just had  the steering replaced and
>> Bilsteins installed so as far as I know everything *except* the
>> bushings were done. There are new rubber boots on the A arm bolts for
>> instance. The shop is encouraging me to do the bushings as they say
>> they are shot but with the big improvement from the upgrades it's
>> handling pretty good to me.
>>
>> They have "dropped down" (their term) the subframe once in looking for
>> a rattle so I don't think anything is frozen up.
>>
>> Thanks for any tips.
>>
>> M./
>>
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