I've been accumulating spare sub-frames and suspension arms for some time now with the idea of refurbishing them as spares for my road-going ST205WRC as well as the track toy project. Some of these were heading for the skip until I intercepted them. I've learnt the hard way never to throw any parts away even if they are in poor condition!
The old suspension arm bushes were removed by Barry at RaR, I did try and remove them using the same technique as I used on the subframe bushes i.e. heat the internal metal sleeve until it either drops out or can be punched out with the scaffold pole and mallet. N.B. I did NOT burn the rubber out although the rubber did accidentally ignite on a couple of occasions! The diff carrier bushes are not listed separately in the EPC so I've acquired a set of poly bushes from Louis at Brooks Racing Development (BRD). I want to keep the ride quality so plan to fit the OEM bushes I received in the TRD suspension kit supplied by TTE in 1998. If I eventually get around to refurb the hubs then poly bushes are the only option apart from the so-called 'spherical bearing' on the lower hub bracket. This bearing is still available from Toyota.
RaR organised the media blasting, prep and powder-coating very quickly and efficiently. The repair work to the subframe suspension mount is hardly noticeable . Saving this subframe was quite fortunate as its in better condition than the other rear subframe. I also intend to treat the interior of the subframes with Bilt Hamber S50 Dynax cavity wax and plug the holes with rubber/plastic plugs.
ST205 Subframes
Front subframes x 2 and two sets of rear subframe front leg plates
Front subframes after treatment and powder-coating
Rear subframes x 2
OEM Bushes removed using gas torch, scaffold pipe and lump hammer
Collateral Damage to rear subframe suspension pickup
Damage repaired and subframe powder-coated
ST205 Rear suspension layout
Rear suspension arms x 2 sets plus Rear trailing arms x 1 set
Arms powder-coated and showing the different bushes for each location
Rear diff carrier after powder-coating and with BRD polybushes awaiting fitment
Front N-S suframes x 3