ARB Bushes

Round

Hello all,

sorry for my one thing after another questions... lol

I've replaced the drop links after they were shot and now it's started to knock again.
On inspection I think the arb bushes need replacing too now. After reading around, some threads suggest I have to drop the subframe to do them?? makes me nervous! as subframes on other cars I've had need jigs to re-align.

Can I replace without dropping frame?

Astra G 2.2 51reg
also what size arb am I likely to have?

Many Thanks

Matt

I supplied Sjdickso with a set of powerflex bushes for the FARB, and they were 20mm. He has a 2002 (52) Astra G hatch.

Not sure how much work is required to fit them though.

Sjdickso

Wlll be well worth it i have been through a few set of droplink and FARB bushes, but once Matt could get poly ones i swapped instantly. I didnt change them myself but hear it is a tight fit to get access thats all.

Round

Cool cheers guys. I had a look last night and it looks like the bolt at the back of the bracket is going to be a pain to access. Torx heads too so can't even use my stubby tool set :-(

Matt

Had a search on google, and most posts about the front anti-roll bar say it's easier to drop the subframe to get access to the rear bolt on the bracket.

Matt

it is really fiddly to get to the rear bolt but the bracket has a slot if i remember rightly on the back so you only have to undo the front bolt all the way. i done them with the subframe in place!

astra22bertoneauto

Haynes manuals are quite useful but i have found a shortcut way. Jack up the front of the car on both sides and put on axle stands. Remove both front wheels. Remove the drop links on both sides as this will allow you to rotate the anti roll bar upwards to allow space for your hand. Remove the wishbones on both sides (ideal time to do the powerflex bushes whilst they are off). Now the metal clips holding the bushes are secured with torx head bolts but a size 10 socket/spanner will fit. I used a small 1/4" ratchet with 10mm socket. With the anti roll bar turned upwards you can get your hand in and be able to use the ratchet to undo the closest bolt and remove. The bolt furthest away is a bit more tricky but by feel as well as some sight you can get the socket over the bolt. This bolt only needs to be undone about 3 - 4 turns just to loosen it off. Once loosen you should be able to pull the anti roll bar towards the front of the car thus releasing the metal bush holder. Lift off the holder and replace the bush. Refitting is reversal of above.

Have a read of my old post and the pictures will explain a 1000 words lol

https://z22se.co.uk/threads/powerflex-front-bushes-done.20447/

Hope that helps.