Audi tools for the poor...

["steve powers" <spowers@spdg.COM>]

I'm now well into the suspension upgrade process. I have removed
all of the struts, control arms and tie rod ends. I will be
replacing not only all of the above, but the ball joints and
wheel bearings as well.

I am looking for suggestions to a visit to the auto machine shop.
The one I've used in the past has quoted:

    control arm bushing R&R - hourly rate (8 bushings)
    wheel bearing R&R - $36 per wheel
    strut R&R - $28 per strut

I'm going to rent a spring compressor (~$10 per day), but I'm
somewhat reluctant to munge a control arm trying to get a rusted
in bushing removed. Likewise with the wheel bearings.

Any tried and _proven_ suggestions? I thought a piece of pipe
with a grade 8 bolt and assorted flat washers might pull the
control arm bushings. I tried a _lower_ control arm bushing tool,
but it was going to destroy the arm before the bushing gave up -
and that's after soaking overnite with penetrating oil!!!

thanks for any suggestions... :)

- steve