Clamping, heating, and removal of a threaded bushing housing - for Bilstein shocks

The standard shafts diameters are 11.0 mm and 14.0 mm, so know what you're working with and machine your brass or aluminum soft jaws / vise inserts accordingly. You could substitute a sturdy vise for the shop press though the press makes this SO much easier! We have 17.5T press and I use 3 tons of force.

I spray the shock shaft and soft jaws with brake parts cleaner and wipe clean to improve the friction on the chromed shaft. If your bushing housing is dirty, clean that but with a milder solvent, not brake parts cleaner.

If you have rubber or poly bushings, take care not to overheat the housing when applying heat. Also, remember to add a few drops of removable threadlocker upon reassembly.

To install a dust boot, slip the top of its cone over the lip of the bushing or bearing housing. I neglect to install the dust boot for our customer Brodey's rear dampers, hence making his video per his request as an intermediate DIY!