Front Wishbone Troubles

[Vernon]

Hi

Took our Betty to the garage yesterday to have her brakes looked at as they were squealing after a weekend away at the Pikeys (perhaps in indignation of having to leave??).

When the mechanic checked her over the front brake calliper had seized a bit so he's quickly fixed that. Being a thorough type of chap he then looked at the passenger side and therein the problems began. He's noticed the bushes are worn in the upper section of the wishbone (I think that's right) but he can get hold of those ok but he is concerned about the bolt that goes through it all and the plate that the bolt goes through and sits on top of the spring ( don't know if I've described it ok or not).

Is it usual to change the lot? And whats that other bit called so I can see if I can find one? Or <hopeful> has anyone got a spare one we could buy off them if its needed?
Thanks

[shepster]

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http://www.brickwerks.co.uk/index.php/t ... upper.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[California Dreamin]

Ayup mate,
The upper wishbone bushes are 'metalastic' (metal & rubber bush) what happens over time is they collapse and the rubber parts company with the metal sleeve.

The bolt has a large allen key head one side and a normal nut the other, it comes out pretty easily revealing the eccentric washers behind...it is these washers that provide the in/out movement needed to adjust the Camber.

Normally the only parts needed are the four bushes (two each side) and some capaslip on rebuild. There are several difficulties involved in fitting these bushes, so really not for the 'Home mechanic'.

The bushes have a spot weld to hold them in place.
Knocking out and pushing in the new bushes can be a little awkward.
Re-spot welding the bushes requires the use of a mig welder.
And after rebuilding, setting up the Camber/Castor and toe in requires the use of proper alignment equipment.

Martin

[Vernon]

Hiya

Thanks for that, sounds like shes in the right place then. Just hope he's got the time and the parts to get her back on the road for next weekend

[California Dreamin]

About an hour each side and another 30 minutes to set the geometry....if it was wearing the tyres evenly (before the bushes collapsed) and driving/braking in a straight line then you'll probably get away with just Camber and tracking.

Martin

[California Dreamin]

For those with a Mig and a bench vice.. you could save yourself money by fitting the bushes and just get the garage to set the geometry.

Martin

[Vernon]

Had to take her to another guy, he does up splitties, bays, t25s & bugs. Reckons its worn the metal plate that the wishbone & bolt attach to. Sounds like this bits part of the chassis so a bit of welding & reinforcing is to be done. He says he has never seen it wear in that area before, typical that. He's busy so gonna be a couple of weeks off road, bang goes our plans for this weekend!