Wow - this is not an easy task!  The uppers came out pretty easy, but the lowers are a PITA.  I ended up buying a big press on Craigslist (will most likely re-sell when done) so I've been able to get all the rubber out of the bushings, and I've also pried off the inner sleeves from the shaft.  So now I have the shaft loose inside the outer bushing sleeves.  I was surprised to see that the shaft does not come out yet -- makes working on the outer sleeves much more difficult.  I'm assuming that there is just enough clearance for the shaft to slip out once both bushings are competely removed?  I bought a mini hack saw that slips in there and I've started making an inside longitudinal cut in the sleeve, but it's time consuming.  Going to try to collapse the sleeve when I'm done and then pry it out.  Is this the right (only??) way to do this?  Easier way?  One of the 'vette magazines has a step by step online -- they sure make this look easy in those pics...

______________

I think you'll find the only thing easy about working on a Corvette is spending money....


I've always used an air chisel to knock the bushings out on control arms. Spraying the arms with WD-40/PB Blaster(or whatever) before hand certainly helps. Placing the chisel behind the lip of the bushing and hammering away knocks them out quickly, most of the time. The bushings always come out in one piece. A regular hammer and semi-dull chisel will work too, but takes a little longer, and it herts like heck when you miss, and bang the crap outta your hand.


______________

Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56    
My Link


(click for Texas-sized view!)             NCRS

"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"

Just about done with the front end overhaul on my 72. The chisel, hammer and hacksaw is what I used.         You will need the press to get them back in. Just take your time.

Well, I beat on one of the bushings with a cold chisel tonight and actually got it to move 1/8".  Woo hoo!  I guy at work is supposed to be bringing in an air chisel tomorrow so I'll see if I get any more action with that.  Patience and being satisfied with infinitely small gains are absolutely required for working on these cars.  Thanks for the good advice.  

______________

I cut mine with a sawsall being careful not to go into the control arm and then beat them with a screwdriver. Jeffm2011-06-21 17:45:42

I used a torch..but if you know me thats the only tool I really have..the others in the big box are just for show..I couldn't imagine doing this stuff by hand..hat off to ya! 

______________

My first parade at Carlisle 2010

The air chisel walked 'em right out of there.  Dang - wish I would have posted this question BEFORE I spent hours trying other methods.  

______________