Without possessing the ability to prevent his or her Pontiac from aging, the most any hobbyist can strive for is maximum preservation. Even that, however, won't keep time from eventually taking its toll on certain components. We found that to be the case with our well-cared-for '72 Trans Am.
In the previous issue of HPP, we explained that our Firebird began transmitting abnormal noises from its frontend. Common sense told us that since we'd replaced all of the original suspension bushings except the control arms' in the past, it was time to perform that task, too. We then completely disassembled the frontend in preparation for installing an aftermarket urethane bushing kit.
In this conclusion of our two-part story, the new urethane bushings and stock-replacement ball joints are professionally installed into the control arms, and we completely reassemble the Firebird. Working at our leisure over several days, the entire process took a total of about two full days to complete in our home garage.
After a professional alignment, the effects of the bushing swap were immediately noticeable. Our T/A rides and handles at least as well as the day it rolled off the assembly line, and quite possibly better since we opted for urethane over rubber. A control-arm bushing swap may be something you want to consider for your Pontiac if its existing bushings are of unknown condition. It's a great way to restore and even improve your Pontiac's ride and handling ability at an affordable price!
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS Fastener Torque (ft-lb) Nut- lower ball joint to steering knuckle {{{90}}} (not to exceed 120 ft-lb) Nut- lower control arm pivot bolt {{{80}}} Nut- upper ball joint to control arm 9 Nut- upper ball joint to steering knuckle 50 (not to exceed 80 ft-lb) Nut- upper control arm cross-shaft end 50 Nut- upper control arm cross-shaft to frame 75 Nut- shock-absorber upper stud 10 Nut- swaybar end link 25 Nut- wheel lug 70 Bolt- brake caliper 35 Bolt- shock-absorber lower retaining 20