Calmini SL. Squeaking like crazy

[Kirk_R]

I installed the 3" lift last fall and I have about 3000 miles on it. Last week I started getting loud squeaking from the front end. I went to get the oil change and alignment checked they said the Centerlink and front sway bar bushings were worn out. I replaced those. The noise got louder. Alignment was done and they checked the front again again. The story they tell me is that because my Calmini control arms use polyurethane bushings this noise can happen. Does anyone know what to do to check this and most importantly to quiet it down. I have a long drive this weekend and its driving me nuts.

Thanks

Kirk

 

[granitex]

Grease the bushings, pump them full, cycle the suspension a few times and then give them another shot.

 

[Kirk_R]

The shop tried but the grease fittings were not in a location that makes them easy to get the gun on. They recommended changing the zerk fittings to angled ones.

 

[granitex]

Very quick and easy fix, if you were closer,, like in the same town where I live I would swap them out for you. It takes like a min per.

 

[Kirk_R]

Can they be bought at an autozone? That's my closest parts store.

 

[metzican]

Yes but take one out to make sure you get the right size thread and also metric vs standard. Its really easy just requires a small wrench or rachet

 

[Kirk_R]

Thanks. I will get on that first thing tomorrow. This forum ROCKS. Everyone is so helpful, I only hope I can return the favor one day.

 

[Kirk_R]

Still squeaks like crazy. Looks like I'm going to need to replace the Calmini bushings and lube the new ones up well. I'm not sure the shop who installed the lift actually lubed them. Anyone in the DFW area think this is a job that can be done at home? Anyone Willing to help for beer and food? LOL. I have basic skills and tools. But have never attempted this before

 

[Muadeeb]

I personally think anything can be done in the home garage with the right tools. I'd help (never done it either), but am booked for the next few weekends.

 

[Kirk_R]

I can wait LOL. I don't drive it anywhere but the airport and local stuff. If your serious we can make a plan for it and I can order up the bushings.

 

[granitex]

Replacing the bushings is pretty easy to do at home. Make sure that you mark the camber bolts so that you can get it close when you put the new ones in.

you will need an alignment after you are done.

 

[Kirk_R]

Will I need any special tools? Are they pressed in?

Thanks for the help

 

[granitex]

A large c clamp is all that you really need, and you should have one for doing your front brakes anyway.

 

[Kirk_R]

Thanks. I guess I may have to invest in one. I don't know what size to get. I guess I will have to research this more before dismantling the X in the garage or driveway. I may need to find a place and get a quote on the labor cost. Just in case it's not to badly priced.

 

[Muadeeb]

June 29 is the earliest I can help out. I don't have the large c clamp (I've alway used a large channel lock) but we should be able to figure it out. I had the knuckles off not too long ago, and the UCAs would've been the next step.

Sent via wild ferrets on crack

 

[Kirk_R]

I can block in that date. I need to order some new Calmini bushings and make sure they get here in time. What kind of beer and food do you like? LOL. I'm in Keller TX.

 

[Muadeeb]

Shiner, and I'll eat most anything but Mexican (it's a tomato thing). I'm in Euless, so you can bring her up to me, or I can grab my tools and he's down there.

Sent via wild ferrets on crack

 

[Kirk_R]

Shiner and Steaks then. I'm fine doing it at my house. That way it's not to far to Firestone to get the alignment done. Plus then I can prepare the food afterwards.

 

[Roadwarrior]

Awesome teamwork!

 

[Kirk_R]

I have ordered the new bushings. I'm hoping they will be here in time. I guess I need to brush up on the process so I feel better knowing that we will have all things needed to successfully do this job. Then of course have steak and beers.

 

[Kirk_R]

I just wanted to thank Muadeeb again for the help and the garage space to take car of the front bushing replacement. Chris your awesome.

The X spent the night with Firestone and should be home soon.