I just removed one...without any exotic tool...in less than 5 minutes. Do I have your attention yet?

The configuration and procedure was the result of an hour or so of thinking about it and mentally going through many potential designs. I tried to concentrate on the minimum functions of the device.

I took an old Macpherson spring compressor, 2 chains and one socket. I chained the threaded housing of the spring compressor to the bushing. I used the other chain to make a secure base to push against the other end of the threaded rod. I used a socket as a thrust bushing.

I tried it out on a spare arm and it worked slick! I'll take photos when I do it on the actual vehicle so everyone will know what I'm describing.

 

Pictures!

I need to do this and would love to see what you did. I think I understand as it sounds similar to what I planned on doing. Even pics of the spare arm would work.

 

Update?

 

I'm planning to do the work some time this week.

I had to help a friend replace his steering rack. Has to use a few tricks to keep the rack bolts from spinning because the serrations didn't hold any of them against rotation!

 

Apparently the laboratory conditions could not be duplicated in the field. I needed to modify the tool, but that didn't completely remove the bushing because it separated from the plastic/rubber. I'll use my oscillating saw to finish it off.

The first photo is of the original configuration. I think it failed to work because the bushing is exceptionally stuck in the suspension arm.

I modified the tool by welding an extra socket that fits nicely in the bushing sleeve.

 

Okay, so I finally got the stupid thing out... I ended up hammering a screwdriver into the plastic casing and breaking it a little at a time to free it.

Next time - use my modified tool & go right to screwdriver/hammer should make it about a 30 minute removal.

Installation was easy. I took sandpaper to the "bore" to clean off corrosion. Then I prepped it with never-seize. Finally I lined it up and walloped it with a BFH. It seated with relative ease. New bolt/nut, install bracket & bolts and I'm good to go!

 

Cool, thanks for the tips and info. I need to do this asap!