inner lower control arm bushing

[Junkman]

I'm redoing the suspension on the 85SD and have run into a little issue with the lower inner control arm bushing. I made a press of threaded rod and washers and thought all was well - UNTIL one cap on the control arm wouldn't press all of the way in. Both caps are bottomed on the metal of the center bushing. I'm using a Lemforder bushing which is the correct PN 126-30-00-75

Bushing link here. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300SD Base Sedan - Suspension, Shocks & Springs - Page 2

Another thread showing the install here: Write up - Ball Joints & Lower Control Arm Bushings & Tool Review (PICS!)

See the last pic in post 9 for what it is supposed to look like. Mine is standing off about 1/4".

Any ideas other than starting over? A friend at a machine shop didn't have an easy way to support the end without interfering with the part that needs to move.

I'm wondering whether putting the center piece in first would work better. Then I could use the threaded rod and washers on both caps at the same time. I have an extra bushing in hand if needed but don't want to mess that one up.

Edit: I'm going to begin again. Does anyone know the factory tool for installing? I've read plenty of threads and none have run into this issue. I thought I was on the downhill slide with how easily the bushing and 1st cap went together. I'm open to suggestions.