Suspension Bushings

Suspension bushings have three main functions. They provide mounting points and locate parts in their proper relation to other components, which is especially important with suspension pieces like control arms to maintain wheel alignment. They allow movement such as the pivoting of control arms, trailing arms and leaf springs, and the twisting of the sway bar, and they cushion and absorb shock and vibration, preventing such tremors and noise from intruding into the cabin.

Bushings are used where the body mounts to the frame and where subframes mount to the body, and where components like steering racks and differentials are mounted to the frame or body, to isolate the cabin from shock, vibration and noise. But in addition to their cushioning properties, bushings can also twist and return to their original shape many times before they wear out, making them ideal for use on suspension parts that pivot like control arms, leaf springs, shock absorbers and sway bars. Most OE replacement bushings are made of rubber.

When a bushing becomes worn, the rubber usually cracks and disintegrates to the point where there is metal-to-metal contact. This usually results in noise, but more importantly causes steering and handling problems. We can supply you with the replacement bushings you need to restore precise steering and handling, ensure proper wheel alignment and even tire wear, and provide a quiet ride. We offer bushings, bushing kits, bushing and shaft kits, and control arm bumpers for all popular late model cars and trucks as well as many classic cars.

Original equipment-type rubber bushings are fine when a soft, quiet ride and factory quality handling is desired. Rubber is softer and more compliant than polyurethane, Delrin, and metal, allowing it to absorb more shock and vibration. Rubber supplies more cushioning than performance bushing materials and tends to operate more quietly, for a smooth, silent ride. Rubber bushings are perfectly adequate for repairs or suspension rebuild jobs on a stock vehicle that won’t be driven aggressively. They’re entirely acceptable when factory like ride and handling, and original equipment level performance is preferred.

The same qualities that make rubber bushings great for stock applications make them inadequate for high performance use. Rubber’s compliance allows too much flexibility in critical joints when a vehicle is driven hard. When the steering wheel is turned or a control arm or shock absorber moves, part of the motion is used up compressing the rubber bushings. Instead of one part moving directly in response to another, there is a momentary hesitation while the rubber compresses before the part moves, commonly called bushing deflection. The result is steering and handling that is mushy and imprecise. In store, you will also find performance suspension bushings which are much more rigid than rubber. They are made from polyurethane or Delrin.