Tools and advice for installing a PST polygraphite suspension kit
 

I just ordered a ploygraphite suspension and bushing kit from PST (http://www.p-s-t.com/sport/sifekpg.html ) and I also bought MOOK brand inter tie rods and adjusting sleeve from rockauto.com with a 5% coupon code 424224393460

What tools do I need to buy / rent ? I plan on use the Auto Zone loan-a-tool program for the ball joint press http://www.autozone.com/in_our_store...oint_press.htm

Do I need a tie end puller? http://www.autozone.com/in_our_store...pecialized.htm

Or a tie rod separator http://www.autozone.com/in_our_store...suspension.htm


In one of the threads I read the PST ball joints had a retainer clip but the ones I received did not. The ones I have look just like the picture below…. Can someone confirm that I got the right ball joints? Also without a retainer clip I should get the ball joints tack welded in correct?


Also do you have any tips or tricks that will speed up the process?

Thanks

here is the ball joint picture

I use a 12 ton press to R&R ball joints, I don't know if the rental tools will be enough for that. Not all of the bjs come with the retainer ring. I like to tack weld them for piece of mind.

There is a long thread that was started by $100T2 on R&Ring the bushings. It has tips and tricks for doing the control arms and another thread by either 64MGB or aussiesmg, iirc. that covered the bjs. They may be in the archives.

If you can't get the joints out, take the lower arms and new joints to you local machine shop.

I just finished this a few months back, using the same kit. Ball joints did not have clips. The autozone press worked great, just make sure you take your time and don't get it in crooked. I also used a small pitman arm puller on the tie rod ends, and a pickle fork for something else too (can't remember right now). Use lots of PB Blaster, take your time, be prepared to face much frustration.

Also, I picked up an angle grinder with a cutoff wheel at Harbor Freight for around 20 bucks. Works great for cutting off those stubborn bolts...

i heard the ball joints in this kit doesnt last long.

kentetsu--how many miles do you have on your kit? how are they holding up?