Hey, the local shop wants an arm and a leg to replace my inner and outer tie rod ends. I've done a lot of my own maintenance, but am a little uneasy about messing with the front suspension. Is it an easy job? Any tips like torque values, etc. would be greatly appreciated. I assume I'll have to have my recent front end alignment redone afterwards???


I also need to replace the control arm busings. I might as well replace all the bushings. I've been told polyurethane bushings really stiffen up the ride, sometimes too stiff for comfort, and also squeak more than rubber bushings. Which ones should I use polyurethane on, and which ones should I use rubber.

Thanks guys.

James,

Try the search thread in this form for replacement of control arm bushings. There has been a lot of talk about this subject. Each one is a little different so you can get a better idea on the job before you. As far as rubber and poly bushings it all over the board which one to use. Poly will give you a stiff ride, but the car will handle a lot tighter in the corners then rubber. I replaced with poly bushings, but really not sure if that was the way to go. Untill my car is back together I won't know. The tie rod ends are not that hard to replace it's the control arm bushings that need careful attention when taking the front coil springs out. The springs have a lot of pressure against them and will need a spring compressor to pull the front end apart. Here's this might help to get you started from a previous post.


http://www.leverfamilysite.com/images/PDF_Files/Microsoft%20Word%20-%20Front_end_Rebuild.pdf

I'll check out the thread. Thanks for the info.

For a 69 chevelle.

http://www.1969supersport.com/torqueset.html

Rob