E36 M3: Challenges while installing a solid aluminum diff bushing

[FredK]

Greetings fellow Track people,

I'm trying to install a solid aluminum diff "nose" bushing into the rear subframe of an E36 M3.

I've removed most of the paint on the inside diameter of the bushing housing.

Now, from my rough measurements, the solid bushing face needs to be more or less flush with the front-most face of the diff bushing housing.

However, while I'm trying to press the bushing in, maybe 80% of the way in, the bushing doesn't want to move on through. Thus far, I've only tried installation "dry", no lube.

Is this a matter of lubing the bore? Or should I heat the subframe? Or both? Any other tips and tricks? Sanding? TIA.

[aeronaut]

What are you using to install the bushing? With a press or the right tool, it shouldn't be that difficult.

[FredK]

There was a ridge in the middle of the bore from weld distortion from the reinforcing plate that ties the round tube that holds the bushing to the subframe. I filed that down and sanded the rest of the paint off the ID. Once that was done, I was able to finish pressing it in.