Re: random DIY info (long) (archive)

I just went through the very same proceedure. The only issue I have with everyone saying "in order to fix the shimmy you just need to replace the control/thrust arm bushings" is, if you car has high miles like most do other parts will be worn equally and if you plan on bringing the handeling characteristics back to new you need to replace it all. That's right, CA, TA, Center Link, Tie-rod ends, Idler Arm (maybe), Sway Links (maybe)..., I guess that's it.

Mind you, I'm not nearly as mechanicaly inclinded as some of the other owners on the board but my experiance was that every time I replaced a part (I too started with only CA bushings) the car would improve slightly but still was far from perfect. I've had the front-end of my car off three times now.

So, what have I learned, if you can save your money until you can buy the whole mess, drop all the arms and steering at one time and replace with new. By the way, my balljoints on the CA and TAs where worse then the bushings, lot's of stability gained after replacing these. Also, invest in a GOOD balljoint removal tool. Not the one with the screw thread that is inline with the balljoint thread, get the "jaw" type that squeezes the assembly like a big pair of pliers. I'll ask my friend where he bought his and post it later. Beating these things with a hammer is a waste of good driving time !!

In addition to the above I've replace the struts, front bearings and tires recently. Boy what a difference. However, I'm still chasing some bad vibrations that appear over 85mph. Probably the rims. And I still have some play in the steering that I believe is the steering box or possibly the steering column universals.

I know it's expensive, just trying to save you some frustration.

Philo.

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