Does anyone know if there is someplace to buy just the bushings that fit in the end of the strut bar or do you have to buy the whole bar assembled?  And if I can buy just the bushings how difficult is it to replace them?   

Paul you can buy them here: BLAIRS and I believe you get a discount if you mention you are a C3VR member.

I have a set that are to go in my Blackray yet this winter. They doen't look to be difficult to install. Press Out / Press In. I am sure that is the simplified versun but it doesn't appear to be too difficult.

                                                    Tux...

They do just press out/in...if ya say the magic cuss werds! They can be a pain at times, but most do just press out/in easily with a press. Hammering is not a good idea!
There are two sizes, also, so be sure to check yours first.

Thanks - got 'em on order.

Thanks - I may need to check back with you when I don't use the "right" magic cuss werds!  I'm sure I'll exhaust my entire repertoire in the process!

I know the magic cuss werdz Bro.... an I gotz more than 2 sizes of hammers so I should be all set.

Paul if your not going to do this right away I may start on these in the next week or so. I am waiting for some consistancy in the weather. I typically don't like to run my garage heater when it is around zero. The last time I saw the news they thought that it should "warm up" around the 30's next week. If so I'll jump on them in the evening and show some pics and wouldya didya information.... Tuxblacray2008-01-30 15:19:40

Can you use C-clamps to press them out?

Only if you have 10-ton c-clamps!
The bushings are basically a metal outer sleeve, rubber, and a metal inner sleeve. They fit really tight into the strut rod ends. I use a press, and a couple of sockets to do them. I've never tried to knock them out with a hammer...I think that would damage the rod ends, as the rod ends are not that thick where the bushings go in.. If, however, you have a meaty bench vise, you might be able to do the job.

Got a propane torch?  I burned out my old bushings with the torch, cleaned up the rod ends with a brake cylinder hone, and slipped the replacement bushings in place.  No press required.  I hesitate to state what is otherwise obvious, but on the chance Bubba may be prowling around, I had removed the strut rods from the car before lighting the torch.

Dang Mike you spoiled my surprise.... That torch was the press I was gonna show Paul a pic of..... I reckon Brotha Joel has been spendin to much time in the Stealership garage and the Snap On / Matco trucks...... He has done forgot how to BUBBARIZE to compensate for the lack of high $$$$ tools..... Oh woe is me....

I spent some time leanin over the top of the car today... But, I ran the heater for a couple of hours and the garage only cooked up to 35...... that's a wee bit too cool for this ol feller to be layin on the the carpet under the car yet...... Maybe Friday...... (fingers crossed). Tuxblacray2008-01-31 13:17:43