steering and suspension Removing Front Tension Rods

[Hans]

I'm trying to get the front tension ("Z") rods out so I can replace the bushings. The nut on the front has so far resisted PD Blaster and impact gun. It's currently soaking. Is it safe to use a breaker bar on that nut? I'm concerned about shearing the Z arm.

[ndog]

try heat first,and have something to put the flame out(pb blaster)

heat it and pb it let it cool and try the wrench.

Edited June 18, 2014 by ndog

[TobyB]

One of the things that will defeat the rattlegun is that the rod can rotate in the bushings-

the gun only tries to move it about 3/32" each blow, and the rod just backs away from it.

 

This is one of those times that a breaker bar with a piece of pipe's got the advantage.

 

You will not shear the arm- the nut's far softer than that forging.

And for that reason, if you use heat, don't let it get hot enough to

change color (even a very dull red)

 

t

[M3M3]

+1 on the breaker bar.

[Hans]

thanks. I'll get Buster out of the tool cabinet.. The other end came off fine, as well as the big bolt, which I assume have been in there since 1967. 

[ndog]

snap on sells a blue point hand held micro torch that offers a small direct flame(its not like maf or oxy) that sould assist with a wrench (bar or not)

[Dabliz02]

Side Question related to this (at least i think)

 

I don't remember how I replaced mine but im pretty sure the subframe was out.  It is doable when still in the car right?

 

 I took a peak and it seems to be ok.  May need to remove/ loosen lower control arm though.

[Hans]

Removing front bushing on 2002 is easy with subframe in place - lever out the back with one end of tension rod. Putting a new one in is another matter - one solution is to use urethane two piece bushing. I have a 2000CS with more clearance. 

 

Took more heat and a bigger air gun at my local tech. Buster the breaker bar was just winding up the bushings.