rx7rotary88

hello forum, I have a second gen and replacing the differential casting bushings but cant seem to figure out how to remove them... ive checked but cant seem to find a thread any help would be greatly appreciated!!

evileight

do the intro stuff and post this in a better section

DaBrkddy

I followed the FSM instructions to a point. It recommends drilling out and removing the rubber in the center of the bushing. This relieves some outward pressure on the bushing, and makes it easier to remove. Next it recommends hitting the flange of the bushing with a chisel and hammer to force it out. There is very little instruction on how to remove them and put new ones in. I found great resistance when trying to remove them with a hammer and chisel (27 years of electrolysis and corrosion.) A hydraulic press and another person or something to support the diff case comes in very handy. If you opt to use a hydraulic press to remove them (which I recommend,) you'll either need to cut the flange from the top of the bushing or move it out of the way with a hammer and chisel. Otherwise, you risk damaging the aluminum "ears" on the diff case. A hydraulic press also comes in handy when installing the new bushings. Most machine shops will have a hydraulic press, as well as some of the more 'high-end' automotive shops. You may want to separate the aluminum case from the differential if you opt to press them out, as it makes the whole process easier. Just remember to move the bushing flanges out of the way before attempting any press work. Good luck.