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Trailing Arm Repair
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Author:  Spider [ Sun Feb 10, 2019 11:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Trailing Arm Repair

I have a slightly bent lower rear trailing arm (Libra/Spider). The two long tubes are bent in the middle - less than 5 degrees. I will take a photo and post later if needed. Can someone tell me what material these are? Can they be straightened? If so, what process should be used - hot/cold etc?

Author:  sidewinder [ Mon Feb 11, 2019 12:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Trailing Arm Repair

Are they mk1 arms that use the LR ball joints as pivot?

If factory parts they're carbon steel, although what exact grade not sure.

Should be able to do it cold given it's only a small amount.

How did it happen? Given the relatively high strength of that part i'd be concerned what else might be damaged?

Author:  sanzomat [ Mon Feb 11, 2019 2:30 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Trailing Arm Repair

I hope this bend didn't happen during your compliance testing!

Author:  Spider [ Tue Feb 12, 2019 2:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Trailing Arm Repair

Thanks guys. They are the later arms with bushes pressed in. Factory parts. They have plates top and bottom and the tubes have bent where the plating stops. I haven't removed it from the car yet but will be conducting a thorough inspection of everything else when I do.

The lower edge of the wheel was struck firmly by a concrete gutter. (Large foot, close pedal spacing and lack of driving talent caused throttle and brake to be pressed simultaneously when it should have been brake only.)

Sanz. HAHA - compliance testing taken a bit too far.

Author:  sidewinder [ Tue Feb 12, 2019 12:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Trailing Arm Repair

That makes em mk2a or mk3 type.

You could possibly do it DIY with vice/blocks of wood and a big hammer, though perhaps better to find a local engineering firm/garage/repair shop with a hydraulic press that can straighten it with more precise control.

Author:  Spider [ Wed Feb 13, 2019 12:31 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Trailing Arm Repair

Thanks Sidewinder. I have access to pressing equipment and a jigging table so I will give it a go. I mainly needed some reassurance that we are working with mild steel.

Does anyone have drawings of the Mk 3 trailing arms? Would save me the trouble of removing the other side to take the necessary measurements.

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