Replacing bushings, which pins are Must Haves

Hi guys,

I'm about to swap out the bushings on my '66 Sprite. Before I get started I figure I should ask which pins I should have on hand. Should I assume that I'll only have to replace the outer a-arm fulcrum pins or should I have replacements ready for the inner bolts too? How about the shackle plate in the rear? I guess another question is whether I should even do the outer fulcrum pins right now as these changes are not absolutely required, just changing to poly. I gather I run the risk of discovering that my a-arms are shot if I attampt the outers, right?

Thanks

Sean,

In order to replace your inner bushings to poly, everything comes off. That's the time to do it all if it needs it. Upper bushings (Trunion bushings) should also be done if your converting to poly. The inner fulcrum pins are likely frozen to the bushings and may need replacement. Everything on my '61 came apart with no problems but most have a great deal of trouble getting things apart. Outer fulcrum pins and kingpins many need to be replaced also. If your car needs the front rebuild, its worth doing as the results fantastic. Don't forget to check the shocks.

Dave

Thanks Dave. I want to think that mine will come apart and go back together easily too. The manual I have gave me the impression that I would be able to take the tension off of/remove the front spring and then take apart the inner a-arm joint. I was going to do that and replace the inner bushings. I bought the trunnion bushings too but I read somewhere that the outer lower a-arm joint is the one that renders the a-arm useless when the fulcrum seizes. I was gonna ride that one 'til it went bad and not risk it now. bad idea? Did I misunderstand?

What parts would you guys have sitting around ready to replace when you go to change out the bushings? Do you buy the either of the "Suspension Kits" that Moss lists? This sprite is new to me so I may be naive but I can't imagine that I'll need everything in either of those kits.

Should I assume that I won't need a new shackle for the rear springs?

Thanks guys, I've enjoyed reading all of the old posts and appreciate your help.

Sean,
When U remove the upper trunion and the spindle (king pin) is now loose, U will know if the outer fulcrum and kingpin are bad. If there is any play between them U need a new one or the other or both. The locking pin, part #19 in the moss cat is not ueusable, if U drive it out to remove the lower/outer fulcrum, U need a new one. Saw front rebuild parts on ebay today, might be worth a look.
Dave