CalTracs are being installed, so.....new bushings. Instead of Calvert Engineering's completely solid (aluminum w/steel insert) bushings, I decided to retain a slight amount of daily driveability and went with a complete rear set of urethane bushings from Energy Suspension. Both are about $60, but I also get a set of rears with the ES package. The solid bushings from Calvert are really for hard-core drag racing setups; not conducive to any type of daily driving. I needed to upgrade otherwise the CalTracs would shred the OEM rubber ones over time. I believe the urethane is a decent compromise. One side is done. Time to tackle the other side. *deep breath*
Wow that bushing took a serious beating to remove. I hope you like your new ones. You know that socket and C-clamp/vise trick for pressing bushings in and out right? If not, PM me.
I do, but I'm trying not to mar up the springs. Plus, with these bushings....it's way past the bench vise stage. We're talkin' hydraulic press here. Yeah, like my c*ck across your forehead when I'm done.
Well, here we are....and both springs have the bushings out. Holy f-ing crap was that difficult. I figured out the OTHER problem: Dodge not only press-fits the bushings, then has a press flange the other end, but they also USE GLUE!!! Total horror show. Some pics...... OEM u-bolts vs. new stainless steel u-bolts: They're slightly thicker. Test fit: (yes- the u-bolts were trimmed. They are now flush with the bottom of the nut when everything is torqued) The only air tool I used for the entire project was the cut-off wheel on the u-bolts. I'll finish the other side tonight. Damn my arms hurt.
