I would like to rebuild the front end in my 78 Brat while I have the motor out. What all should I replace? I know I need wheel bearings and a tie rod end but what else will I need and are the parts I need still available? Any help would be appreciated.

Check the Ball Joints, swap the axles of bad, and any other maintanence you can think of.

Also check the smoothness of the steering rack such as lateral play in the tie rods. I'd check the rag joint on the bottom of the steering column, where it meets the steering rack, for possible weakness.

Balljoints, inner and outer tie rods, struts cartridges and that's about it.

 

Check the rack, lube the steering u-joint and check the rubber disk between the steering rod and the rack. The VW bug one fits and provides a tighter feel. (Just use your original 4 steel sleeve inserts in the VW disk.

 

I have some 4WD struts for sale @

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=64117

 

Most places have discontined these.

 

Todd

I'm gonna do all of this on my Brat soon (hopefully) is there anything that needs to be pressed in, or can I do it all at home and then get it lined up?

I'm gonna do all of this on my Brat soon (hopefully) is there anything that needs to be pressed in, or can I do it all at home and then get it lined up?

 

Don't really need a press to do any of the fornt end work on it. However, the tie rod ends and the balljoints are going to be a bit tight so have a tie rod fork ready for action! The wheel bearings are more of a press in fit, BUT if you have a larger hammer and a chisel, pound them out on a work bench with the bearing not having anything touching it. Only do that though, if you're planning on replacing the bearings.

 

Don't forget the wheel bearing seals!

 

Oh and one other thought. Make sure that the caliper slide bolts are well greased up with brake caliper lube. You can used regular lithium grease but with them being closer to the pads and rotors, not a wise idea.