You might aqsk the guys at the front end shop if they's be willing to do the
job with you sourcing the parts - might save a few bux that way.  I don't
like doing my own front end work (especially steering); too much to lose if
I screw up.

I have about 300,000 miles on my Westy with the bushings NOT spot welded -
no problems.  Some say it must be done; some say not needed (this ought to
start a war).

Karl Wolz

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From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jeff Lincoln
Sent: Wednesday, May 11, 2011 1:08 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Front end suspension

So I finally got a new tire and I took Gertie ('85 1.9) in to have an
allignment done. They couldn't do it - said I need upper control arm
bushings and upper ball joints. The shops price parts and labor was almost
$800 - not saying that isn't fair (I'd bet it is) but I can't swing that.

I sourced the parts and included lower ball joints and tie rod ends for less
than $200 from our vendors. So the question is having never done this work
myself, what does the esteemed list say for a project like this as a DIY
project? Should I even try it? I could find myself some experienced help
too.

I know those upper control arm bushings need to be spot welded - that I'd
need someone else for anyway.

What other pit falls or hassles am I looking at?

The guy at the shop said I might consider replacing the long mounting bots
as well. What are your thoughts on that? Anyone have a part number or a
source for those?

--
Thanks,

Jeff
'85 GL (Gertie)
'90 Carat (Grover - the noble parts donor)
'78 Bus (Melissa) Patty's Bus

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