Question on removing drivers front lower wishbone

[TuffTR250]

I am working on my front suspension on my 1961 TR3A. When I got to the point of removing the drivers side front lower wishbone arm, I find that I can't get it off the frame member fulcrum pin because the steering box is blocking it from sliding off the fulcrum pin.

Do I have to somehow lift the steering box up out of the way enough to slide the wishbone arm off the pin? Or am I missing some special way to get it off?

If I have to lift the steering box up out of the way, will the steering box lift if I just remove the bolts that mount it to the frame? Thanks for the help!!
Regards,
Bob

 

[TR3driver]

I don't recall the details offhand, but mine came apart without disturbing the steering box at all.

Did you try removing the nylon sleeve first, and maybe turning the steering a bit for more clearance?

 

[TuffTR250]

I'll give it another try this morning! I'll try removing all the nylon sleeves and also try a bunch of different positions of the arm and steering. Thanks for the reply!
Regards,
Bob

 

[TuffTR250]

I finally got the front drivers side wishbone arm off. I took both the plastic and metal bushes out and turned it in every possible way, but it would not come out. I took out the two long mounting bolts on the steering box and pried it up with a crow bar just enough to get the wishbone arm off the fulcrum pin. I suspect something might be bent on the steering box mounting bracket on the frame that prevents the wishbone arm from coming off. This car was driven hard in it's past life.
Regards,
Bob

 

[Mmeck]

I just finished the passenger side with no problems. It was a little tight but everything replaced ok. Tomorrow I'm starting the driver's side and I'll let you know if I have to move the steering box or not. I was thinking of pulling it anyway to rebuild but that's gonna be a PITA to get out, so I may rethink that.

 

[Mmeck]

Bob,
Just realized that we are pretty close. If I Can be of help, let me know.

 

[TuffTR250]

Thanks Mike! I appreciate the offer. BTW, if you are not a member, have you thought about joining the TCOC (Triumph Club of the Carolinas)?
Regards,
Bob

 

[Mmeck]

Bob, I've run into the same problem. Just not quite enough room to clear the nut holding the drop arm. Tried turning the steering wheel but still not enough clearance. Tomorrow I'll loosen the nut and see if that doesn't do it. Forgot to try Randall's idea of removing the nylon sleeve. Will do that first.
I talked to Jamie about two weeks ago about joining TCOC. Just haven't gotten around to it yet. I think I can download an application from the website.

Take care
Mike