LCA Cam Bolt VS Centerlink

[kayak]

Finally getting around to doing the S10 spindle/brake swap on wifey's '75 Skyhawk. Tear down on pass side going well until...

aaarrghSmall.jpg

Really? Seems I have to remove the idler arm/centerlink to get the cam bolt all the way out. Now, I knew it was tight on our H-bods down low, but this is so kludgy.

As it turns out, I'm replacing all the rubber and pulling the idler arm to replace it, along with a good clean up and inspection of the centerlink, so it was all going to come out sooner rather than later.
Guess I should be thankful that I didn't bust either of the cam arm nuts off. Been reading on the boards and that seems to be a relatively common occurrence.

Kurt in Oklahoma
1975 Skyhawk

[Monza Harry]

It has been a long time since I have had to deal with that, but if memory serves correct, you just have to turn the steering wheel to one side to remove that. (right for right and left for left?). If that is a fail at least it wasn't a lot of work for nothing. Harry

[kayak]

Saw your post and ran over to crank the steering wheel as soon as I finished reading.
It got me another inch, but nothing doing on a clean removal.

I pulled the two idler arm nuts/bolts and was able to drop the centerlink enough to clear the cam bolt.
A little persuasion and the LCA dropped to the pavement. Woot!

[cjbiagi]

Rebuilding a front suspension is sort of an initiation to the H body family After so many years it can be a real challenge to get it apart and get the cam bolts out of the bushings. All in all I would say you were pretty lucky. Often times the cam bolt needs to be cut to get things apart as it bonds itself to the inner sleeve in the control arm. Sounds like you are making good progress. New bushings and washers will help things get back to form. As you mentioned, great time to inspect or replace all the rest of the steering components especially if they have never been changed. Balljoints are also pretty much a gimme especially since it is all apart. If you have any problem finding parts feel free to let me know and I will do what I can.....Clyde

[kayak]

Thanks Clyde. I do count myself fortunate for not having to wrench too hard on any bolts so far. PB Blaster and time are my allies.
Looking for a power steering centerlink now. My local OReilly and Napa stores said, "what kind of car?" Swell.

Onto cyberspace shopping for me.
Kurt

[mahoy78spyder]

Has anyone found a good source for new Cam bolts?

[cammerjeff]

Amazon seems to have 3 left in stock for under $12 each

http://www.amazon.com/ACDelco-45K18018- ... r+bolt+kit

[mahoy78spyder]

Awesome thanks! Buying now!

[Monza Harry]

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detai ... &ppt=C0106 O'Reilly's lists them, but not available for home delivery which usually not a good sign but you could call and see. I wish you luck, you will only need one now correct? Harry

[mahoy78spyder]

I had to cut all 4 off. Need 'em all.

[Monza Harry]

Yes I understand that but you bought the three from "Amazon" I thought. Here is another listing expensive but listed. Harry http://shop.rareparts.com/smtp/shopdisp ... SUSPENSION, SPRINGS & COMPONENTS eBay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/71-81-H-body-Co ... JS&vxp=mtr

[cammerjeff]

I have a couple good used ones left, if you can't find a 4th for a reasonable price $25.00 shipped to you for both of them.