Hello all,

Well I finally have some time to myself to work on the Z. Started to tear down the rear suspension to sandblast, powder coat and rebuild, but I did not realize I need a spindle puller to remove the spindles. The service manual just says to remove them like they just pull out easily. Yea Right!! After 38 years they seem rusted pretty solid. Doesn't make sense to buy a puller for $150.00 to use only once. Does anybody have a set they can rent me to get mine removed?

It seems like it would be cheaper to just drive them out and replace with new for the price of the tool and to only use it one time.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you, Jeff

From what I've read, this replacement is the bane of all Z restorers and owners.

Sometimes they do come right out like the manual says. One of mine did. The other wouldn't even come out with a shop press. I replaced mine with new pins in any case so if you think you can get them out with a hammer then go for it. The ends will mushroom on you and if they get too big then you'll have trouble.

Not to be insulting but you did remove the center lock pins, right?

Yes, I removed the lock pins and soaked them in penetrating oil for a couple of hours. I was thinking of heating up the housing to help with removal but am a little leary about heating up suspension parts unless I have to.

There are loaner pullers both on here and on hybridz. PM beandip and see if he still has one to loan:

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=14647

Yes, I removed the lock pins and soaked them in penetrating oil for a couple of hours. I was thinking of heating up the housing to help with removal but am a little leary about heating up suspension parts unless I have to.

I went after the joint with an oxy-acetylene torch. They came right out after that. I had to buy a new set, though, because they suffered an unfortunate accident after removal (and the ends were mushroomed, badly).

Edited September 3, 200915 yr by Jehannum

Many horror stories about spindle pins. One came out easily for me while the other required sawing and a 25 ton press! A lot of folks just live with old worn bushings rather than fight it. Once you've got the old pins out be sure to clean hole out with some scotchbrite, fine snadpaper or a small flapper wheel (my preference). Don't remove excess material but clean that hole good and shiny. Be sure to put a good anti-seize on the pin and in the hole prior to reassembly. That will make things much easier for you or the next owner years down the road.