I spoke to the builders helper today. The builder is on vacation for the week. That's why he didn't call.
The helper I spoke to was the one who removed and installed the bushings. He confirmed that the one he removed was aluminum. I told him he wasn't able to remove the entire thing and I could tell he felt bad. He is going to speak to the builder/shop owner this week and get back to me. He agreed that I should get something in exchange for my hassle/expenses.
We shall see, I suppose.
