Upper Control Arm Fit Issue

[tedy]

I am in the process replacing the control arm bushings on my 81 Spider. I am working on the driver's side first and things have gone pretty well, with one exception. When I went to reinstall the upper control arm it did not fit. Not even close. The bushings protrude through the control arm too far and will not allow it to slide into position. I looked at the passenger side (which I have not touched yet) and it looks similar. The outer ends of the bushings on that side are not flush with the arm. I backed each of the bushings out (just a little) on both sides of the driver's side arm and was able to slide the arm into position. I have not torqued the bolt yet. After I replace the bushings on the passenger side I will get the car back on its wheels and perform the final torque. I guess my question is has anyone else encountered this problem? Is this a common issue with the Fiat? There is no evidence indicating the car has ever been damaged.

Tedy

[RRoller123]

Pics would be very helpful!

[v6spider]

If you look at this picture of v6spider 1.0 you will notice that the bushing is not pushed in to where the lip is flush with control arm face. The control arms I bought from IAP were built that way they have worked fine since they were new..WHen you install them the opening where they mount to the frame needs to be spaced evenly between the gap... IE each bushing goes in the exact same depth..



Hope this helps!
Rob

[wizard124]

When I did my front end, I was careful not to press the bushings in too far. I pushed each in about the same amount by a calibrated eyeball.

The lowers, I took to a machine shop to have the bushings replaced.