Strut Rod Sleeve Removal

I'm installing Total Control Products strut rods in a 72. I've removed the old bushings. The instructions mention removing the steel sleeve insert (if so equipped) after the factory bushings have been removed. I have attached pictures of what I believe is the sleeve. For anyone who has done this mod, am I correct that it is the areas within the blue circles front and rear that need to be removed? They are in there good and I just want to be sure before I get more aggressive in removing them. It is suggested they be chiseled out. Some initial pounding with a chisel had no effect. Anyone done this and how did you do it?

Thanks,
Rob

I doubt they want those removed, they are reinforcements for the strut rod crossmember itself. The instructions are a generic set for 68-73, which is a normal mistake for these companies. IMO, if the socket setup fits into the crossmember as-is, I'd leave it alone.

Worst case, contact TCP.

Agree 100% with @Hemikiller 's post. If it fits, use it as is. If it doesn't fit then call before removing. If you look at the picture in the instructions it shows a thin sleeve while what you are showing is a thicker bushing.

I did contact TCP but they just sent the same photo as in the instructions (which you attached too) and what I have certainly doesn't look like that. I'm inclined to agree and I may try cleaning up the circle opening to gain enough clearance, or even grind out a little with a Dremel. Assembled, the gap (pic attached highlighted with blue arrows) is a lot narrower than the gap created if I leave those original rings in place at the mount. So that concerns me a little. But I think if I start with just opening it up a bit I will get a better sense for it. Would seem to be the best way to start.

Rob

RJM72 said:

I did contact TCP but they just sent the same photo as in the instructions (which you attached too) and what I have certainly doesn't look like that. I'm inclined to agree and I may try cleaning up the circle opening to gain enough clearance, or even grind out a little with a Dremel. Assembled, the gap (pic attached highlighted with blue arrows) is a lot narrower than the gap created if I leave those original rings in place at the mount. So that concerns me a little. But I think if I start with just opening it up a bit I will get a better sense for it. Would seem to be the best way to start.

Rob

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If I understand correctly, the gap you are showing is when the strut rod nut is completely threaded. In real life it should stop before the end of the thread so all the clamping force is applied to the frame mount. Is the smaller bolt in the picture used to prevent the strut rod nut from unthreading?

You make a good point Tony, that makes sense. So maybe the thickness with those rings in place will be ok. Ya, the small bolt is to lock that cap in place.

Rob

I put the total control front end package on my 73. There were no sleeves to knock out for the front of the struts.

giantpune said:

I put the total control front end package on my 73. There were no sleeves to knock out for the front of the struts.

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Ok that‘s good to know. When you look at my first set of pics, did your strut rod mounting points look like mine after you had removed the factory strut rod and bushings?

Thanks,
Rob

RJM72 said:

Ok that‘s good to know. When you look at my first set of pics, did your strut rod mounting points look like mine after you had removed the factory strut rod and bushings?

Thanks,
Rob

Click to expand...

I cant tell. On mine, the strut end went all they way into the hole. It was a perfect fit with no slop or rattling around. Then i installed the ends.

Okay thanks guys. I am going to proceed with the mounting points as is and not try to remove anything else. Good to have some other minds helping out.

Rob

Is the "sleeve" they are referring to the one that comes in some bushing/washer/sleeve kits?

Those sleeves, if supplied and used, can attach themselves to the rod and look like part of the rod, changing the outside diameter.

roadwarrior said:

Is the "sleeve" they are referring to the one that comes in some bushing/washer/sleeve kits?

Those sleeves, if supplied and used, can attach themselves to the rod and look like part of the rod, changing the outside diameter.

Click to expand...

Could be, though after cleaning up the opening with a rotary file I was able to get the pivot inserted snug and tightened correctly. So in the end I would say this car did not have those sleeves.

Rob