Control Arm Bushings Replaced

[scottfab]

Finally got around to replacing the upper control arm bushings.
I did the lower ones about 3 yrs ago but wanted to wait on the
uppers to minimize the complexity of finding any squeaks.
(the replacements are polyurethane)
No real issue to speak of. Took 4hrs. Time to go out and test drive it
in a few hours.
I used Energy Suspension for the replacements.

http://zr1.net/forum/picture.php?albumid=199&pictureid=2542

[scottfab]

Amazing difference in tightness.
Worth it for sure. The old rubber bushings were soft
like sponge rubber.

Now for new shoes for her and an alignment.
Then I'll be ready for the driving season.

[XfireZ51]

Did that last winter along w new ball joints, upper and lower. This winter, replaced sway bar ends, tie rod ends F/R, and rear trailing control arm bushings. Much tighter steering, perceptibly flatter cornering. I actually can step down the FX-3 setting.

[scottfab]

I checked ball joints. Very tight still and coming up on 100Kmi.
By going after one thing at a time I hope to isolate on what needs
attention and what doesn't.

Next is sway bar but looks fine and the tension can be adjusted.
Hubs are good and tie rod ends are good.
I may replace the center caps on the wheels though.

[XfireZ51]

Scott,

My ZR has 125k+ so I follow the "while you're there" rule.

[scottfab]

Scott,

My ZR has 125k+ so I follow the "while you're there" rule.

I follow the "what to tell people with actual experience" rule.
It goes back to Engineering 101 at UNL 43 yrs ago.
The best solution is the most cost effective one.
Not that I haven't shotgunned solutions in the past (bulk replace) but
when you have the time and inclination to go for what has
actually failed, why not? :hello:

I think because mine is not exposed to moisture AND
pot holes......... the ball joints are still tight/stiff in the sockets.
I was a bit surprised at the rubber bushing though as soft as they
were.

Can't wait for new shoes on the car. New rubber is the best!!!!

[XfireZ51]

Not a question of shot gunning solutions. I just don't want to take it apart again.
So I multi-task.

[scottfab]

Not a question of shot gunning solutions. I just don't want to take it apart again.
So I multi-task.

I hear that. Not an issue. You just have to know what your goal is.

[Blue Flame Restorations]

Nice write-up, Scott.=D>

[scottfab]

Nice write-up, Scott.=D>

thanks

[scottfab]

Just returned from a test drive with the new poly bushings and new
shoes on the car.
wow.....nice.
tracks great and no more cow dung or farm dirt on the suspension.
Nothing quite like new tires on the car.

[XfireZ51]

Scott,

I did poly on the rear dog ones and on the rear sway bar. My sense is perceptibly flatter handling. Feels neutral. I'd already done the full front end last year.

[scottfab]

Scott,

I did poly on the rear dog ones and on the rear sway bar. My sense is perceptibly flatter handling. Feels neutral. I'd already done the full front end last year.

The rear is next winter's project with poly. (no hurry for winter to come soon though)
Poly does seem to be the way to go !
Doing both tires and poly in front at the same time is the double whammy.
Next test is to go on THE notoriously rutted Banfield Highway here in
the metro area. The car used to follow one rut or the other. The spongy bushings were most of the problem
I'm thinking.

It's going to be a fun driving season, for sure.

[Rex Ruby]

Poly is the way to go.
Did my '93 (LT1) a few years ago and major improvement on handling.
Definite difference between the '93 and the Z.
Want to do my ZR1 in the next year or so.