LCA install on a 63 Dart

[pk socal]

I know I’m missing something obvious but I’m try to avoid the bf hammer method.
I’ve replace my LCA shaft bushing and the strut bushing (both 1 piece poly). What is the trick to reinstalling the LCA and strut? The manual says to install them as a single unit but the length and angle of the strut keeps the LCA shaft from going straight into the K member. It gets wedged and doesn’t want to insert all the way.
Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[valiant1966]

I just finished this job on my car. Didn't use poly bushings but should be close to the same. The strut was mounted to the frame, cross member, whatever you wish to call it first.
I started the LCA onto the strut rod end, then pulled/pushed the LCA shaft into the frame and then alternated working each one until it was completely on both.
It's kind of a patience game and there should be enough wiggle in the strut rod to get the LCA to move around enough to get both the strut and the control arm shaft going.
Once again, I didn't use polys so maybe it's a LOT stiffer but with a little patience, it should go by working each end a little at a time. Start with the strut end first tho. Dennis

 

[pk socal]

Thanks Dennis,

Sorry it took so long to reply. I got busy for the holidays and I had to hang it up for a bit. I tried your suggestion. Poly bushings definitely make things pretty stiff but starting with the strut rod and going back and forth between that and then going back and forth between the pivot shaft and the strut got me where I needed to go.

Perfect. Thanks again.