I'm currently working on my 55 customline and would like to replace the bushings since the engine is out right now. My question is how do you get the old bushings out, I know to use with a press but does the whole control arm top and bottom have to come out to replace the bushings or is this something that can be done whilst still in the car?
remove the arms from the car. The factory shop manual should show you how it's done with the special tools they had available...if you don't have them, you have to figure it out yourself. An air chisel usually works to remove them, and a big bench vise and some short pieces of the right size pipe/tube/sockets will usually put them back in, without a press.
They are a bit of a PITA. But it’s well worth doing on most cars. Don’t be surprised if they come apart as they come out. Look close, take pictures. There’s something odd about the bushings I can’t remember right now (no surprise). But I think between the car and the bird, one installed different. From the other side. Point being, don’t listen to the guy with the bird (me) follow the damn manual. Second, don’t do the final tightening until the engine is back in and the wheels on the ground. Then give it a good bounce or two. If you’re thinking about lowering it (like the Aerostars) now is the time. And check the ball joints. Then have it aligned by someone who knows old cars.
I just did them in my '66 Belair. Air chisel and ear protection all the way. I was wearing vinyl gloves, managed to pinch a finger... which did not pierce the glove! What a bloody mess. Normally I wear gym gloves. Highly recommended! I start out getting under the bushing flange. It is a crap shoot whether or not the sleeve comes out with it. I hold the arm in a large bench vise. I have some beat up large sockets to pound the new ones in. Get everything clean, it helps. Use never seize on everything.
I'd also check the local parts store to see if they have the rent or borrow system for specialty tools. It makes a suck job much more likely to be successful and less dangerous. EXAMPLE, the average home guy doesn't need this on the shelf unless they are doing one job a month. https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/...-chassis-control-arm-bushing-tool/opm0/t40004 BTW, this is firmly in HAMB territory, you might get more eyes on it in the main forum.
Do take pictures before you take them apart. Keep track of any washers that fall out (lower arms). I had some lower arm bushings on a '68 Impala to replace, I opted to have a local parts house to press them in and out
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