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Topic: Tricks to swapping out steering rack? (Read 8700 times) previous topic - next topic

Tricks to swapping out steering rack?

Reply #45 –
We have an old bar at our shop just for doing them the way you describe.  Takes practice.  And sometimes an assistant.  I can't see anybody with lesser resources than us doing it this way, it's not exactly the "everyman" method.

Tricks to swapping out steering rack?

Reply #46 –
Foe grab the Snap On big bar open the lower control arm insert the bar in the lower coil and yank the spring out simple quick and i have been doing it that way for years.
I spend money I don't have, To build  cars I don't need, To impress people I don't know

HAVE YOU DRIVEN A FORD LATELY!!

Tricks to swapping out steering rack?

Reply #47 –
my tools intended use is for ball joint replacemnt and control arm replacement.

however by simply backing off the nut on the bottom, the spring is kept straight so the spring can be removed as well.

-add jack stand under your car frame
-remove wheel
-back off ball joint nut flush to top of ball joint stud, hit spindal with hammer to dislodge the ball joint stud using spring presure
-loosen strut nuts and tie rod end nut, you can disconnect tie rod end at this point
-place jack under control arm just enough to touch it for safety
-place 1/2'' flat bar in the lowest part of the spring coil, encourage it with a hammer in place
-jack up the control arm and add all the spring compressor hardware, spin / tighten lower nut to desired spring comression amount
-remove control arm jack and spring stays put
-remove lower strut  & ball joint hardware
~~~~~now spring is trapped and lower CA is free

if you want to remove the spring, then just back off the lower nut and it will slowly in a contolled and straight manner come out.


i see what you mean about "wanting a slight arch in the spring,, i did have / see this problem when i took out springs but i quickly improvised. I simply used a wratchet strap to pull the spring in and in poistion over the lower lock down clamp area and it worked out perfect.

its my belief the spring "could use an arch in assembly but not really nessessary.

Tricks to swapping out steering rack?

Reply #48 –
Next time i do springs i am going to post a video. Jay i never remove an A frame to change ball joints. No need to do that. buit your tool is very interisting and inventive. BUT!!! BE CAREFUL . thanks my friend!!
I spend money I don't have, To build  cars I don't need, To impress people I don't know

HAVE YOU DRIVEN A FORD LATELY!!
 

Tricks to swapping out steering rack?

Reply #49 –
i think two things here....
1 your misunderstanding me...
2 we are hijacking the thread

that tool you asked about,, it was used when i needed do LCA work,, and also for the first time document the ID/OD of the bushings to share with the board.

i didnt say it was needed to do ball joints.

i still dont understand the "be careful part",, the spring is trapped,, 100% of the tools your recommending do not do this nor does the spring tool in the earlier video.