I replaced my LCA bushings in a parking garage in Baltimore without dropping the subframe. I used a press tool I bought on amazon to remove the old bushings and press the new ones in, it worked like a charm, and I was able to sell it to someone else for almost as much as I paid for it. I don't think you can replace the inner ball joints without dropping the subframe, but if it's just the bushings you need to do, then I'd do it without dropping the sub frame.

Here's the thread I made after doing it with the videos and tools I used.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-and-tips.html

 

Tnx man.

 

I have the BavSport tool that is shown above - to swap the bushings. No cost to loan it out other than shipping. PM if interested.

 

so with this tool no need to drop the subframe? just the lower control arm, then slide the bushing with the tool?

 

That is the idea. - I’ve not used it, it was a pickup here on the marketplace.

 

I was able to get the black power flex outer bushing into the mount by warming it gently and then standing on it. Seems unorthodox but it worked beautifully. I put the bushing carrier on the ground propped up on two 2x4's then used a wide flat piece of wood on the top of the black poly outer bushing race. One person held the wood level and then I stood on it, it popped right in.

The part does need to be warm just to be soft enough to flex into the carrier, but a hairdryer was more than enough. Hot water would likely work too. I didn't want to buy a press as I'd likely never use it again.

I had the subframe out though, i guess you either pay in labor to remove the subframe or pay in tools when doing it in the car lol.

 

I have done multiple LCA bushing removal and upgrade to Powerflex by using that same cup style press from Amazon. I most certainly would not drop the sub-frame.

I do have a lift, so I am able to get well under the car and use the bushing tool easily. If I didn't have my lift, I would be using my 32" tall truck jack stands. You need lots of room to work underneath.

I swear the hardest part of the whole damned operation is removing the LCA from the old bushings. The 4-foot prybar method is a GREAT solution for that. Pushing it back in is easiest with a 16 or so inch long pry bar, then everything else just bolts together.

José