TTA1437

iTrader: (7)

What is everyone using to level the lower control arms in the press? I am trying to install lower ball joints and bushings. I have a 20 ton press and want opinions on what people have used to jig the contol arms up.

whytryz28

iTrader: (28)

I held the control arms of my 69 while I pressed in the joints.

TTA1437

iTrader: (7)

The shape of the control arm and pressing does not allow for holding due to the pressure of the press.

Undertow74

iTrader: (45)

i just had to shim it with random blocks of metal. Your not going to get it 100% straight, but you will be able to press them in just fine. put some lube on the balljoints as well

TTA1437

iTrader: (7)

I ruined one control arm from pushing in ball joint not straight. Just wondering what people use to rig, jig, shim control arm so it stays straight.

jimmyblue

iTrader: (11)

I used a piece of 2" or 1-1/2" (I forget) PVC pipe for the
"receiver" and a large impact socket for the "pusher". The
PVC was ruined afterward but it got the job done. You could
maybe get an iron pipe union at Lowe's or something, if you
planned to do it often.

01ssreda4

iTrader: (96)

I did mine without a fixture. It wasn't hard to figure out if you are familiar with using a press.

leadfoot4

iTrader: (1)

I agree, but that doesn't help the OP....



Step 1, put the ball joints in your freezer. This will get them to "shrink" a little, and press in easier. While you're doing this, de-burr the hole in the a-arm. Step 2, after the B/Js have cooled for a while, place the B/J on the base of the press, then place the arm over the B/J. Take the "larger than the OD of the ball joint" piece of tubing you've previously procured, locate it in the "pocket" of the arm while you hold the arm at the right angle, then press the arm over the B/J.