cut the rear sub-frame bushings out? Or need to be pressed?

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 2:29 am

I had bought some high performance bushings and they get bolted in, not pressed. I was told you can cut the old bushings out, rather than bringing it to the shop to be pressed out, anyone try it? Thanks

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 9:20 am

Yep I've done it, used a hacksaw and a blow tourch. Are you fitting Powerflex by any chance?

Have a look at http://www.bmwe30.net/cgi-bin/datacgi/d ... Section=05

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 1:49 pm

what is powerflex? I am putting in bushings from Bavarian Auto in the US. How difficult was it to cut them out? I am going to try it with a sawzall/reciprocating saw. Thanks

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 2:01 pm

ive done it also with a blowtorch and hacksaw.
Straight forward enought to do,but id advice on wearing a mask as the fumes and smoke are suicide material!

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 6:42 pm

clydesdale wrote:what is powerflex? I am putting in bushings from Bavarian Auto in the US. How difficult was it to cut them out? I am going to try it with a sawzall/reciprocating saw. Thanks

Powerflex is a company that produce polyurethane bushes.
When using the saw be careful not to cut into the metal of the sub frame, other than that and what eko has said it is straight foward

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 10:42 pm

charlE30 wrote: Powerflex is a company that produce polyurethane bushes.
When using the saw be careful not to cut into the metal of the sub frame, other than that and what eko has said it is straight foward

One or two things to be carefull of when using the blowtorch as well!

Post Sat Dec 31, 2005 10:49 pm

One or two things to be carefull of when using the blowtorch as well!

should of said,i took the full rear beam off the car,thus eliminating danger!

Post Sun Jan 01, 2006 1:30 am

How will this car ride with the polyurethane bushings and can they be installed with the subframe in the car. I was on another e30 forum and they said there is no room to get a socket on top of the bushing to tighten the bushings. The bushings from bav auto bolt in place. I was told there is no room to get a socket on top to tighten. Is this true. Maybe i will just order the stock ones then. Need help, what do you suggest. Will the car ride too rough around town. Thanks Happy New Year!

Post Sun Jan 01, 2006 10:24 am

I don't know how difficult it would be with the sub frame still in place, I removed everything to replace every bush

The poly bushes are easier to fit than the standard ones and I used a threaded bar with a couple of metal plates to press them in.

With regards to ride quality it will also depend on what suspension you are running, I'm very happy with mine.

Post Sun Jan 01, 2006 11:36 pm

i did it with everything in place,done in 3 hours,mine you the air chisel helped!! i wouldnt entertain doing it again without one! powerflex rule,dont buy stock,powerflex actually work out cheaper too!!