Bottle Jacks and Bushings - Details

[Mark Pollan <Mark.POLLAN@MCI.COM>]

I received a request to post details on my use of a bottle jack to
replace subframe bushes and motor mounts so here goes.

Removal of Subframe bushes: 
=========================== 
I used some other listers technique (at least in part) whose name 
escapes me so I definitely won't take credit.

     o Loosened all 4 subframe bolts about 1/4".
     o Removed both bolts on one side.

  Forward Bushing:
  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
     1. Cut as much of the rubber as possible from the top of the forward
        bushing.  I used a _sharp_ wood chisel.
     2. Put a spacer of some sort (I used a mongo hex nut) between the
        bushing and the frame.
     3. Position the bottle jack as close to the bushing as possible
        and lift away.  The bushing should start easing out.  If it
        doesn't you probably left too much rubber.
     4. After you get enough clearance put something deeper (socket)
        in place of the hex nut.  This should get the front bushing
        all the way out.

  Rear Bushing:
  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
     1. Repeat 2 and 3 from above.  There is "no" rubber to cut away.
     2. I liberally applied heat (propane torch) to help persuade the
        rubber to let go of the subframe.
     3. Repeat 4 above.



Installation of Subframe bushes:
================================
     1. Put a spacer between the subframe and the frame.  Mongo hex
        nut!
     2. Liberally lubricate the bushing with your favorite rubber safe
        lubricant.  Not to start anything but I used KY.
     3. Use the jack to push the bushing in.  Should go in real easy.
     4. Tighten bolts to spec.  Retighten after everything settles
        and get an alignment.

Installation of all 4 took less than 10 minutes.  Removing the front
bushes was a pain.  That rubber is tough and access is limited.  I
sharpened the chisel 3 or 4 times.

***CAUTION!  Do not cut the rubber while pressure is being applied
   to free the bushing.   If that bushing lets go your finger(s) may 
   be very unhappy!


Motor Mounts:
=============
I simply positioned the bottle jack on either side of the motor so
that the piston lined up with a suitable solid lift point.  On the
passenger side it is possible to hit the motor mount bracket.  On the
driver side I used a substantial looking metal "tang" that was actually
part of the gear box assembly.

If anybody has any questions please feel free to contact me.

Mark Pollan, '86 5KCSTQ 241K Miles in search of a suitable nom de plum(sp?)

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