Control arm threads for bushings?

[mcmlxix]

I am getting ready to rebuild the front end on my 71 C/10. I bought a used set of all 4 arms from Mothertruckers so I could sandblast and paint them without having to tear the truck apart first. My idea was to preassemble the arms for installation.

As I was blasting and painting them I see that the threads in the arms are somewhat worn. I dont know how well the end cap bushings for the shafts will thread into the arm. Also, where the end cap tightens down on the arm, the metal is worn at an angle. Not bad but not 100% straight. Its as if it was worn or overtightened. I filed them smooth but I am concerned about it.

For anyone that has rebuilt their front suspensioin, is any of this going to be a problem? I am going to try and test fit the shafts this weekend and take some pics... I searched the board but none of the other discussions addressed these issues ...
thanks

[jku72]

When you buy new bushings, the shaft is usually included, they are usually changed together.

[Spoof]

If your speaking of the control arm threads I recall that the thread pattern normally looks sort of shallow and worn, at least that has been my experience. I wouldn't be concerned if the the outside lip of the bushing thread looks a little uneven, everything will still seat normally as long as the control arm is not bent or twisted.
Just to let you know it can be a bit of an ordeal re-installing them. Just a lot of hard wrenching and adjusting. Make sure you put them in the right way the first time or you'll be as mad as I was when I had to reverse them.

[Number98]

Yeah I am not sure about the Wear you have on the end because I have not came across that, but the threads in my control arms were shallow as well. This is normal from what I understand plus the caps also thread onto the cross shafts so you won't have a problem there, like Spoof said that is as long as your control arms are not twisted or bent. I ran into a bent one with my 71 and had to replace it. Good luck.

Jason

[Brad]

Always replace the bushing and threaded rod together. I didn't several years ago and had to do it again within a year-that sucked. The second time I replaced the whole thing with a 77 front end and rubber bushings. I'll take the rubber bushings over steel bushings any day!!!

[MOTHERTRUCKERS]

You should have no problem with rebuilding the arms i sent you, they checked out tru and within specs. If you do run into a problem please call our tollfree line and if we can't walk you thru it i can send another set or rebuild them here and send them to you.

[mcmlxix]

Thanks everyone .. I bought all new moog parts, so by what everyone is saying I shouldn't have a problem... Ed, if I do I'll let you know .. Thanks

[mcmlxix]

Everyting worked great. Ed. thanks again... Now all I have to do is add the front swaybar and I'll be set ....