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[Andre']

I'm about to replace the front control arms and the rear control arm bushings. The rear control arm bushing won't fit the pivot pin on the control arm. I'm measuring .712" (OD pin) and .699" (ID bushing). As per our local Porsche dealer it's supposed to be a press fit but .013" is a lot (.002"-.003" should be plenty)!!! Does it have to be press fit? My concern - if press fit the pivot pin won't pivot inside the metal sleeve inside the bushing, and all the torsional load would go into the rubber of the rear control arm bushing causing possible damage over time. Also, if press fit how do I determine the "timing" between arm and bushing?! That just doesn't sound right. I'm thinking about asking a machine shop to open up the bushings to achieve a slip fit? The bushings are OEM parts, the control arms are Lemfoerder which is a OEM supplier to Porsche.

Regards, Andre'

[Rasta Monsta]

Metal sleeve is not designed to rotate. The bush deforms as the arm moves up and down, so it should be installed at an orientation reflecting normal ride height of the control arm.
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Toofah King Bad

• WeiBe (1987 924S 2.5t) - 931 S3

[Andre']

Thanks, Rasta! Metal sleeve is bonded to the rubber - it can't rotate - that's clear. The pin is designed to be press fit into the metal sleeve in an orientation that reflects the future ride height of the car. Makes sense, and sounds simple but how do you do this in reality? Control arm must be removed to press in bushing - control arm cannot be in the vehicle to install bushing! A difference of 0.013" OD-ID sounds OK to you? A couple thousands would be all right but that much? What I've heard so far is thet there is a serious risk to bend the stamped A-frame..

What does the factory work shop manual say in that regard? Anybody out there that can provide some clues?

[Rasta Monsta]

This procedure is not covered by FSM.
_________________
Toofah King Bad

• WeiBe (1987 924S 2.5t) - 931 S3