Quote:
Originally Posted by Schurkey
Haven't done that job on a C/K of that generation, but I'd suspect that unless you're installing Polyurethane bushings, you'll have a VERY difficult time getting them pressed out of/into the arms.
Poly would be less work since you melt the rubber bushing, it poops out of the original outer shell. Then you clean up the shell with emery cloth or sandpaper, grease up the Poly bushing and it's inner sleeve, and slide 'em into the original outer shell. All you'd really need is a propane torch, and that's way more maneuverable than a hydraulic press.
Be aware that the PROPER tool will separate the ball joint stud from the steering knuckle without damage to the boot or joint.
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It looks like the upper ball joint has been replaced before so it is just a matter of unbolting it from the upper control arm (the rivets are gone); that way I don't need to buy the 'right' tool to avoid damaging the rubber boot with a fork tool; the upper control arm should remove easily.
It's still 20 below so I am going to drive the truck to my friends shop; his hydraulic press will simplify changing the bushings out.
It's an hours highway drive from there to the alignment shop so I am going to be extra careful in marking the adjuster bolts and washers in relation to the control arm so I don't grind all the rubber off of my tires
