And it was all going so well.....

[tdskip]

So - it is time to reinstall front suspension hub which requires putting the Pivot Bolt (#92 from below) through the newly installed nylon bearing (#94) and the trunnion. Everything was going well but when I did a test fitting the wishbone arms are not perfectly lined up, there is about a 1/16 offset that is preventing the pivot bolt from sliding through.

I have the lower A-arms and lower pan installed along with the spring (with spring compressor) under compression.

Ideas? Normal to have this happen (OK to lie to me and say "heck yes" or similar)?

 

[TR3driver]

Not normal, but perhaps not too serious either. That bolt should go in before the spring & spring pan.

Assuming you are using stock components, I'd suggest compressing the spring and loosening the nuts & bolts for the pan; but leaving them loosely in place while you insert the bolt & set the clearance. Tighten the pan bolts & nuts, then check that the lower arms move freely before releasing the spring.

But if you are using Nylatron bushings or similar, this is the point where you assemble all the A-arms without the spring pan, and check for freedom of movement throughout the range.

 

[fogdot]

Assemble everything "snug" until everything fits, then go around and torque to spec.

 

[tdskip]

Thanks guys - I'll loosen the bolts to see if that does it and if not then remove the spring and pan.

Thanks for the coaching.

 

[Brosky]

Tom,

I agree with Randall. Assemble everything as a unit and then bolt it to the frame with two #105 bolts. It will then be hinged to the frame and you can install the spring and bring everything up together as a unit. See pic below:

 

[tdskip]

Thanks Paul - should have also mentioned that I am using Poly bushings. Let me have a go at this later this AM and report back.

Randall - with the a-arms and pan assembled the lower arm assembly moved smoothly through it's range.

I do remember the pan being a pain to get off when I first disassembled it - for what ever that is worth.

Thanks.

 

[TR4A_IRS]

Tom,

Like others have mentioned, it is probably the pan giving you the most trouble. If the bolts that connect the pan to the A arm are left loose, you should have enough range of motion to get the pivot bolt in.

Ian

 

[tdskip]

Hi Ian - thanks for the note.

So I pulled the spring out, loosened the spring pan and the fulcrum bracket and was able to get the bolt through. I need to tighten the everything up now and make sure I have a good range of motion but I think I'm good here.

Thanks again for the coaching.

 

[tdskip]

Done - the suggestions worked guys!

 

[Brosky]

Another job well done, here at the BCF!!!