VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 front suspension bump stop install

I got all new parts for my 50 styleline deluxe. I'm replacing the front suspension bump stops. The two that go to the lower arm have bolts through them. The top two are a "push in" type. Anyone have any hits to get these to "push" into place?

Soap them up, clean around the openings and push.

Gene’s technique is what I do. I use Dawn dish soap because it is really slippery and pretty much rinses away with no residue and no damage to the rubber.

It’s the same idea as installing glass in weatherstripping or putting a tire on a rim. You have to get a portion of it started. Then I find that rotating while pushing makes things go better. After you get about 2/3 of it installed the mushroom end will suddenly pop in the rest of the way.

Tried this with grease and didn't work. So, I will try the Dawn soap. While I was in the shower I thought of another that may work. Boil them (heat gun might burn) and then while hot, compress the "tit' part with a small hose clamp. I will then use the dawn again and push it in and let it return to it's original shape. Trying the Dawn and pushing first, as it is easier.

One other trick to consider. Push on it horizontally with a long thin bladed screwdriver to get part of the lip started. I doubt if the rubber will ever compress enough that you can it straight in.

I try to avoid using petroleum based lubricants on parts like these. Typically the rubber is not formulated to resist petroleum like the rubber in seals.

I would think heating them up would make them even larger.

Got them in and front end done. I kept them cold and soaped them up. I used a small screwdriver and just slowly pushed and pried them into place. soap, small screwdriver and lots of patience are the tools I used and it worked.

Good job, Jeff.