I need to replace my lower control arm bushings (oval in back and round up front). I'm considering buying a used set of control arms, putting new bushings in these and then swapping them with the control arms in my car to minimize down time. By going this route I can use control arms with the oval bushings or the round bushings. Will round vs oval affect anything on the car as far as handling, etc. I think I read on some other board that the FE2 suspension option came with one type vs the other type of bushing. I don't see what difference it would make. Also are there any tools out there that i can buy from one of the tool vendors, snap on, mac, etc. so that I can change the bushings right at home or do i strictly have to find someplace with a press I would guess? If its not something I can do at home are there any board members on Long Island who has a shop I could bring the parts to? Allen allioop108@aol.com
Get the lower arms with round bushings, much easier to install. Easiest way is to use an air chisel to collapse the bushings inwards. Use a dull (repeat dull) chisel tip, you don't want to cut thru the metal. Go to Autozone and use their balljoint press (oversize C-clamp) to install new bushings. Put a light coat of oil on the outer sleeve. You can also place a socket or some other metal object on the open side of the C-channel opening to prevent it from collapsing as you tighten the C-clamp.
