Installing Trailing Arms On A Classic 1957 Buick

Installing trailing arms is a common suspension modification that most car enthusiasts can do themselves. Trailing arms are essential for both the stability and ride comfort of a vehicle. While there are several reasons why a motorist might change their trailing arms, such as worn-out bushings, rust, or integrated ball joints, it is important to monitor the state of your trailing arms to avoid uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situations. This guide will cover the symptoms of bad trailing arms, the causes of trailing arm failure, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to install trailing arms on a 1957 Buick.

Tools required: end wrenches, ratchet extension, sockets, sandpaper, grease, shop towels

When installing trailing arms on a 1957 Buick, there are several tools you will need to get the job done. Here is a list of tools required for the installation process:

• End wrenches: You will need a set of end wrenches in various sizes to tighten and loosen bolts during the installation.
• Ratchet extension: A 6-inch-long ratchet extension will come in handy for reaching tight spaces and providing additional leverage when needed.
• Sockets: Ensure you have sockets in the following sizes: 14mm deep, 8mm shallow, and 3/4-inch shallow. These will be used with your ratchet to fasten bolts securely.
• Sandpaper: NicSand 100-grit sandpaper is recommended for smoothing and preparing surfaces before installation.
• Grease: Sta-Lube hi-temp grease is essential for lubricating components and ensuring smooth movement in the suspension system.
• Shop towels: A roll of Scott ShopTowels will be useful for cleaning and wiping away any excess grease during and after the installation.

Having the right tools is crucial for a successful and efficient installation of trailing arms on your 1957 Buick. Make sure you have gathered all the necessary tools before beginning the installation process to avoid any delays or complications.

Parts required: trailing arms, trailing arm bracket, lateral arm

To install trailing arms on a 1957 Buick, you'll need to source the following parts:

Trailing Arms

Trailing arms are essential for both the stability and ride comfort of your vehicle. They mount to the frame of the vehicle with bushings and extend to the axle housing or wheel knuckle. When replacing trailing arms, you can opt for an entirely new unit or just replace the bushings. However, replacing the entire trailing arm may be more cost-effective, as bushing replacement typically requires special equipment.

Trailing Arm Bracket

Trailing arms connect to the vehicle's frame via a bracket. Over time, this bracket may become damaged or corroded, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. It's important to inspect the bracket and replace it if necessary when installing new trailing arms.

Lateral Arm

The lateral arm is another critical component of your vehicle's suspension system. It works in conjunction with the trailing arm to provide stability and control during cornering and over uneven surfaces. Like the trailing arm, the lateral arm is susceptible to wear and tear and may need replacement if it shows signs of damage or excessive wear.

When sourcing parts for your 1957 Buick, it's essential to ensure compatibility. Check that the parts are designed for the specific year, make, and model of your vehicle. This will ensure a proper fit and save you time and effort during installation.

Signs of a bad trailing arm: clunking from the rear axle, unstable vehicle, excessive and uneven rear tire wear, vehicle lower on one side

While trailing arms are sturdy and don't typically wear out, the same cannot be said for the trailing arm bushings. These rubber or polyurethane components act as cushions and reduce friction between suspension parts. They are susceptible to damage from extreme heat, excessive twisting, fluid leaks, and bumpy roads.

Clunking from the Rear Axle

A bad trailing arm bushing will create a 'clunk' or 'thud' noise when placing the vehicle in drive or reverse, hitting bumps, accelerating, turning, or braking. The sound will get louder as the bushing continues to deteriorate.

Unstable Vehicle

Worn bushings or a broken trailing arm can cause the rear axle to move independently of the vehicle's chassis. This will cause the vehicle to sway, especially when turning or hitting a road bump. The rear wheels may also change the direction of the vehicle when driving in a straight line.

Excessive and Uneven Rear Tire Wear

When the rear axle moves out of position, the vehicle's weight shifts, causing the tires to wear on their new leading edge. This can result in premature tire wear, especially on the inner or outer edges of the tire. A common tire wear pattern associated with a bad trailing arm is "cupping" or "scalloping," which appears as a series of dips or depressions along the tire's tread surface.

Vehicle Lower on One Side

Worn trailing arm bushings can allow the rear springs to lift one side of the vehicle slightly higher, altering the rear-end height by up to about an inch.

Causes of trailing arm failure: extreme heat, excessive twisting, fluid leaks

Extreme heat can cause the rubber damping material of the trailing arm bushings to crack and harden. This can lead to a clunking noise when you accelerate or brake, excessive and uneven wear on tires, and loose steering when turning corners. High heat is particularly detrimental to rubber bushings.

Excessive twisting can also cause trailing arm failure. Twisting occurs when the bushings allow excessive roll on your vehicle, which can cause them to twist and eventually tear. This is dangerous because it can cause the steering to become unresponsive, leading to a potential loss of control of the vehicle.

Lastly, fluid leaks can also cause the trailing arm bushings to deteriorate and fail. Transmission coolant or petroleum leaks onto the bushings can cause this type of failure.

Trailing arm replacement cost: $17 to $430

The trailing arm is a crucial component of a vehicle's suspension system, providing stability and support during driving. When upgrading or repairing trailing arms, it is essential to consider the costs of parts and labour, which can vary depending on the vehicle's specific needs and location.

The cost of trailing arm replacement typically ranges from $349 to $376, with labour costs between $104 and $131, and parts priced around $245. However, it is worth noting that this range may not include taxes, fees, or location-based variations. The cost of replacing trailing arm bushings, which are small rubber or polyurethane components that connect the trailing arm to the car's frame, can vary from $500 to $1500 for parts and labour, depending on the vehicle's make and model.

For those looking to install trailing arms on their 1957 Buick, it is important to consult a professional or a specialised forum for accurate advice. The process may vary depending on the specific model and year of the Buick.

In terms of the tools and parts required for a trailing arm installation or replacement, there are some standard items to consider. These include end wrenches, ratchet extensions, sockets, trailing arms, sandpaper, grease, shop towels, and other basic tools. It is also recommended to have the vehicle lifted and supported securely to access the trailing arm and axle or control arm.

By considering the costs, tools, and parts required, as well as seeking professional advice when needed, installing or replacing trailing arms on a 1957 Buick can be a manageable task for those with some automotive knowledge and experience.

Frequently asked questions