Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safely lifting and supporting the truck.
* Wheel Chocks: For added safety.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket Set: Various sizes, including metric and possibly SAE.
* Wrench Set: Open-end and/or combination wrenches.
* Ball Joint Separator: A pickle fork or ball joint press is recommended to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. Hammering can damage components.
* Bushing Removal Tool: Specialized tools are available to press out the old bushings. Improvised methods can work but risk damaging the control arm.
* Bushing Installation Tool: A press is ideal, but sockets and a hammer can sometimes be used with careful techniques.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Safety Glasses and Gloves: Always wear appropriate safety gear.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Raise the truck securely using the jack and support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel from the side you're working on.
3. Disconnect Components:
* Disconnect the sway bar link: This will usually involve a bolt or two.
* Disconnect the brake caliper: Carefully remove the caliper and support it to prevent the brake line from stretching.
* Disconnect the ball joint: This is usually the most challenging part. Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. Again, a press is preferable to hammering.
4. Remove the Upper Control Arm: This usually involves removing bolts that attach the control arm to the frame and the steering knuckle. Penetrating oil may be necessary to loosen rusted bolts.
5. Remove the Old Bushings: Use a bushing removal tool to carefully press the old bushings out of the control arm. Improvised methods exist, but a proper tool minimizes damage.
6. Install the New Bushings: Use a bushing installation tool to press the new bushings into the control arm. Again, a press is the best approach. Ensure they're seated properly.
7. Reinstall the Upper Control Arm: Reinstall the control arm, ensuring all bolts are properly tightened. Refer to your repair manual for the correct torque specifications.
8. Reconnect Components: Reattach the ball joint, brake caliper, and sway bar link.
9. Lower the Vehicle and Test: Carefully lower the vehicle. Check for proper clearance and alignment. Test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Get an alignment done afterward, as this process can affect the alignment of your vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: On older vehicles like a 1991 S10, rust can make this job significantly more difficult. Penetrating oil and possibly heat are your friends.
* Press: Using a press for bushing removal and installation is highly recommended. It will make the job much easier and safer, preventing damage to the control arm.
* Alignment: After replacing the bushings, you'll almost certainly need a wheel alignment. This is crucial for safe driving.
This is a simplified overview. Do not attempt this repair without a detailed repair manual for your specific vehicle. The manual will provide precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams that are essential for a successful and safe repair. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic. This is a suspension component, and improperly installed bushings can compromise the safety of your vehicle.
