Control arm bushings

[Chen]

Hey guys, is there any alternative to using a hydraulic press when removing control arm bushings?

[BullShifter]

Yes. Press is the easiest.

Without a press, heat/melt inner bushing until it falls out. Then cut through the outside sleeve with a hacksaw or even dremel with cutting wheel.

[Chen]

thanks jack, I'm probly gonna try the poor man's way first and then proceed from there.

[BullShifter]

I have a website in my favorites at home that has a step by step instructions. I'll post it when I get home some time tonight.

If you have to repalce the bolts, either get them from honda or get HIGH GRADE. Do not use some $0.25 bolts from the hardware store. Suspension bolts are very strong.
www.hondaautomotiveparts.com will have the cheapest prices. I worked for a Honda dealer & that website sells cheaper than I get with my discount at the old dealer.

[Chen]

I got bolts from the junkyard that seem to be in good condition besides being dirty and looking used. Should I go with new ones?

[BullShifter]

If they are the correct bolts & not cracked, stripped, or broken you should be fine. Those bolts are like $6.00 EACH.
http://www.suspension.com/tips.htm

[Chen]

Dude I am having a hell of a time getting those sleeves out! I broke two scredrivers already. I tried taking the control arm off but I can't get the ball joint apart. (ball joint is right behind the brake disc?) If I can get the arm off then I'll see if it helps me get the sleeves out, otherwise I'll look into taking the arms to a shop.

[jcrx]

Dude, I can believe your trying to do that with the LCA on the car. Get a ball joint puller, pop it off, and do this... Get a socket set, and find a table vise. Place socket one size bigger on one side of LCA around sleeve, then place a socket the same size as sleeve on hte other, now put this in hte vise and pop it out. Reverse process to install.

[BullShifter]

Back down the nut to then end of threads & smack with hammer, that should seperate ball joint or even hit the control arm near the joint. The shock from the hit pops it loose.

Your not gonna be able to pry the outer sleeves out without first cutting it.