Sub bushings in

[Neil Swanson <75377.3445@compuserve.com>]

Done it,

First some backround.  A typical 100k mile 5ktq.  The car had some clunks, kick
back through the wheel and just an elastic feel.  Couldn't find anything really
bad except more motion in the subframe than my friends '87 5kq.  Her car feels
soooo much better than mine I had to do something.  I had checked all the usual
stuff and decided to go to the roots.  The subframe bushings.  One note, since I
got the car I've done new front Konis, wheel bearings and top mounts.

So I got Erics' parts.  First off the machine work is superb.  Really nicely
finished steel sleeve/washer inners in delrin bushings.  Very good quality parts
I'd say.

So during the install I found my tranny mounts are kind of lame, soft and soon
to go.  Also the bushings where the roll bar goes through the control arm will
have to be done.  But the ball joints and inner control arm bushings are OK.  So
I bet the condition of mine is as that of many of you.  OK but not perfect.

Parts in.  The steering is connected to the wheels!  It is a lot sharper.
Straighter under braking, better over bumps.  No more wander on the truck ruts
on I95 where the car used to hunt like a dog looking for a place to pee.  The
whole car, well the front end feels more together.  Big improvement and no extra
harshness I feel.  It was harsh and loose and sloppy before, not so now.  I'm
happy and this is with all the other old parts and no alignment.

About the leading bushing in the rear arms.  The part I saw and reported that it
couldn't be swapped isn't what my car has.  That had three bolt attachment mine
has two.  I can/will swap them side to side.  They can't be swapped end over
end.

I also see where they have some fore/aft motion.  That could be lessened with a
simple washer sandwiched between the bushing and the arm.  Unbolt/slide of the
bushing assembly, add a washer and reinstall.  If that isn't clear it would be
if you looked and did it.  Could tighten things up back there.  I'll try it.

So they work.  I don't know what new stock sub bushings cost vs Erics'.  If you
think or know you need to do the sub bushings consider these.

Updates to follow.

Neil
NSPS