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TR2/3/3A TR3 question - front suspension rebuild access

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T

tdskip

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On my continuing quest to get the '3 sorted and back on the road I pressure washed the engine bay and front suspension/steering assembly today. It looks like access to the various ball joints and bushings is pretty tight relative to a TR4 or TR6.

Do I need to remove the front clip or just get much more flexible than i currently am?

pressurewash10-29-0.jpg
 
Re: TR3 question - front susspension rebuild access

I helped a freind with his TR3 rebuild and we completed it with the front clip in place. Yes, it is tight quarters but no real issues other than we had to disconnect the steering column and move it out of the way to remove the front lower A-Arm.
 
Re: TR3 question - front susspension rebuild access

Heck of a bunch easier by removing the front clip but also a bear of a job. If you were doing a frame off that would be different. If your not, do the best you can and go with the galloping horse theory. That is to say, if it looks good from a galloping horse your good to go.

Good Luck, Tinkerman

Pretty car by the way.
 
Re: TR3 question - front susspension rebuild access

If you have a 'solid' steering column, then the front apron has to come off to get the steering box out (assuming you need to take it out). The later "split column" box can be removed with the apron in place.

But all the other bushings/joints are fairly easy (IMO) with the apron in place. To do the Silentblocs in the center link, disassemble all 4 of the taper joints and pull the link out to the side. One of these will make breaking the taper joints easier. (Note, I do NOT endorse ToolWarehouse, it's just a handy photo on the web.)

Of course, you'll also want the TR2-6 style spring compressor, which you can either build yourself or buy from the usual suspects. There are several threads on the forum with construction details.

And Tall jack stands help solve my 'flexibility' problem (old whiplash injury from being rear-ended in a TR3A).

Haven't got my new uprated Silentblocs from Joe Alexander yet, but I'll bet they are a huge improvement over the other replacements available today. TRF has them listed too (and should have them in stock any day now).
 
Re: TR3 question - front susspension rebuild access

Just did mine and no problem, just remove the steering box bolts and move it a tad to remove the lower outer arm.
 
Re: TR3 question - front susspension rebuild access

It has been 18 years since I did mine, but I know I did not remove the apron and I don't remember doing anything with the sterring box. you should be able to do it with just bending your spine a bit /bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/smile.gif I was 22 at the time and much mofe flexable
 
Tinkerman said:
Pretty car by the way.
Click to expand...

The further away you are the better she looks!

Thanks for the info guys, let me take a good look at what I need to freshen up and I'll give it a whirl.
 
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