I also have a 79z thats stock with 175K miles. The front contral arms bushing are shot if not gone like the top 2 rear. I can't get the control arm and the metal sleave to seperate from each other. I used a puller and can seperate the inside part but it looks like the outer part is rock solid. Is there a tool or technique to get 30 years of metal apart?

 

I don't know about 30 years worth but I've had a lot of success with 10- 15 r old stuff when using PB blaster for days before disassembly and then some heat if necessary.

 

drilled out the rubber middles before...

and then used a hack saw to notch the inside of the sleeve... (being careful not to cut the control arm itsef.).

Once you're thru the sleeve... even 3/4 of the way, it becomes weak and collapses somewhat which allowed me to pull it out.

Did this on rear LCA bushings... (not sure if front are similar??)

 

I sprayed the PB Blaster just before but never let it sit. It should be good and soaked in by now. I like the cutting idea a lot and maybe the heat method. Will give it a try. Thanks for the help guys!

 

If you have access to a hydraulic press go with that. See if any local shop has one where they can do it for you, they may charge a few dollars but it is well worth it. It will take you maybe 2 minutes to press out everything, definitely the easiest way to do it.

 

Hacksaw and hammer after drilling out centers did the trick. Thanks for the help.