We bought a 2004 Mitsubishi Outlander that was wearing the new rear tires quite badly and would “clunk” on bumpy roads. Looking at the rear suspension I found both sides had considerable vertical and horizontal play in them. After some research I found this was a common problem with these vehicles in areas where road salt is used. The seals on the rear suspension bushings fail and the bushings “eat themselves”. A VERY substandard part for that application if you ask me.
According to the information I found the bushing in the lower control arm was the only replaceable one, The upper control arm and stabilizer link were sold as a unit. They all three looked like the same bushing so being the fix it yourself guy that I am, I decided to give them all a try.
I machined a two piece puller. One side was bored out deep enough for the bushing and the piston to fit inside and had a small step to center it. The piston was cut just a little smaller than the bushing O.D. and was also bores out so the center shaft of the bushing had clearance. I drilled a 1/2″ hole in the end of both pieces for a threaded rod to go through.
Then I got to business pulling the old bushings out. I actually drilled out the hole through the bushings to a larger size so I could use a larger rod to pull with and then took the air wrench to them. Here all three are pulled from one side.
After removing all three I measured them and they were all the same outside dimensions. I proceeded to order six of the bushings listed as the part number for the one in the lower control arm.
Using the same puller, I pressed the new bushings into place.
And here is what it looked like after they are all in.
The vehicle now goes down the road
much nicer with no clunks and I would guess no more excessive tire wear.
If you need custom tooling or fixtures made for your project or business, check out my website and then contact me. www.maxx-industries.com
Maxx Industries 