C6 shift linkage rod bushings/grommets

[wyngnut55]

71 F100 C6 trans. The nylon bushings/grommets at each end of the shift linkage rod. I believe the part # is EOSZ-7341-B.
Question, How do you install these without screwing them up? Hot water? You can buy a variety pack at the auto parts store that only has 1 of what you need out of about 6 in the package for $6.50. Or you can find the right one online for about $5 each. I've already screwed a new one up, don't want to do it again!

[Busboy]

In the factory service manual they show a special tool. A pair of special pliers that crimps them into place.

[390xlt]

If it's what I'm thinking of, I've had some luck using a socket and a large pair of pliers. Make sure the socket has a larger diameter than the bushing. Slide the bushing onto the rod, place the socket between the round side of the bushing and one jaw of the pliers and the other jaw on the bend in the rod, then squeeze. Putting a tiny bit of grease on the round side of the bushing can also help. This only works if you've got enough space to get everything in there though, which can present a challenge a lot of times, especially with everything still on the truck. I'm sure it would be much easier with the proper tool.

[wyngnut55]

I'm sure its what you're thinking, good idea if can hold it all up there while trying to get the pliers on it. The grommet is pretty hard to get to on both ends. Behind the brake booster on top at the column and exhaust on bottom. Adjustable Ball joints at each end seems like a good retrofit project. Like to see what that tool looks like?
Thanks

[BobbyFord]

I put a dab of silicone grease on the tapered end of the bushing and place it in the entrance of the hole in the linkage arm, place a nickel on the flat top of the bushing and use the pin end of the pliers on the nickel to press the bushing into the hole. Then take the linkage rod and place the tip into the bushing, using the pliers again press the linkage rod into the bushing.
To remove the rod from the bushing, flip the pliers over and use the pin to press the tip of the rod back out of the bushing.

[Busboy]

Where did you find that tool?

[BobbyFord]

Where did you find that tool?

Got it from one of the tool trucks when I worked for Ford. There’s no brand name on it but probably made by OTC. It might even be Rotunda.
OTC # for a newer version is T67P-7341-A

[BobbyFord]

Here’s a pair...

https://m.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-OTC-OWAT ... fe02f90a78

[Busboy]

I appreciate the info. I'm a tool junkie so I'll probably pick it up. Looks Rotunda to me.

[wyngnut55]

Thanks for the info guys. Second try worked well. I bought Dorman grommets online. They were softer and easier to work with, not as brittle as the nylon grommets from the help section of the auto parts store. Removed the nuts on the brake booster so I had a little wiggle room. Modified a small C-clamp and things went well.

[redstone65]

I bought Dorman grommets online. They were softer and easier to work with...

Got a link to the ones you used?

[wyngnut55]

Good ole prime. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=dorman+74040 ... _ss_i_1_12

[BobbyFord]

These grommets are available from Ford.