I had the opportunity to help with my son's 84 Westy in trying to solve his MAJOR squeak and knocking in the front end. In an attempt to solve the problem, he had the ball joints redone about two weeks ago by a reputable shop in Columbus. They apparently overlooked the disintegrating left UCA bushing (right one seems fine). We put it up in the air and I was amazed at the play in the bushing. Perhaps the new ball joints may have accentuated the movement, thus causing the bushing to fail very quickly (?). Short version is that I had the bushings on hand in preparation for doing my 87 Westy's front end; so the parts were available. The ball joints, being new, came right off and the through bolt was only finger tight from all the bouncing, I assume. Anyway, after removing the UCA, the old bushings pounded out nicely once the weld spots were cut. A bit of brightening of the UCA bushing sockets and the new bushings went in with a little pressure from the 30 ton press. Tomorrow, after the re-welding and checking/repacking all of the wheels bearings, I expect the van handle much better. This was my first time doing this job on a Vanagon. It was not that hard. Thanks to all who replied to my inquiry last week regarding the UCA issues. -- Stephen Chillicothe OH |
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