Yup. BTDT, and so far so good! I'm happy with the results, and the work
has survived some extreme abuse, too.

I bought a hand-operated C-frame press - and replaced most of my
Syncro's front-end bushings and ball joints using it. Granted, with the
lower bushings, I had to do some fakery with some other sockets and
such, but not a bad job to do, at all. Of course, an assistand came in
very handy.

The high quality press I bought, and a link to a description, picture
and price. I believe I bought it from these folks.

The press:   OTC 7249 Ball Joint Service Tool Set

The place: http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/OTC-7249.html

Ron A

p.s. - I have had good luck with Febi brand parts, less so with Meyle.

--Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Tim King
Sent: Thursday, August 26, 2004 7:59 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Syncro lower control arm bushing tips?

So, my hand was called. I've been sitting on a big pile of front
suspension parts and avoiding dealing with them. Now I've got a ripped
front CV boot and need to deal with it. I figure this is a good time to
take care of the works.

I'm trying to decide if I do it myself, or if I take it to a shop so I
can actually have a weekend with my family. I talked to a well-regarded
local mechanic (Dan at Louis Foreign) and he said all the syncro rubber
stuff is no biggie -- except the lower control arm busing. He said
everyone he's attempted, he's totally buggered them. Now he just doesn't
do them and no one complains. Hmmmm....

That just doesn't sound right. Anyone have any BTDTs for me on this?

Thanks.

Tim in Seattle
87 Syncro Westy/Suby 2.5