Upgrading to Eurethane Bushings

[Lazeum]

Some recommend using Urethane and rubber on the T/C rod bushings. The reason given for not using all Urethane on them is there have been cases of the T/C rod breaking because of the lack of flex.

I had a full discussion with MSA about this. They say they was no problem to be expected.

As far as I'm concerned, I've changed everything but TC rod bushings where I've put new rubber bushings to avoid failure last spring.

The drive was sluggish and not sharp. I then switched to poly since they came with the kit anyhow, the car is much more enjoyable to drive.

Regarding the flex with poly bushings, I had to apply only 2 lbs on the tip of the TC rod where it's attached to the control arm to move it around way enough to reproduce suspension travel. Basically, I'm not convinced TC rod failure would occur because of poly bushings. Loads aren't high at all.

I'm wondering if there wasn't any other special cause creating the failure: sway bar interference, wheel interference, etc.

I'm running a fully poly set and everything goes well for now.

To the OP, the major job is definitely the spindle pin bushings that are really small & stiff. Other parts are easy to do as long as you're using proper tools. If you want to do it right, do everything (that's better) but you might be fine leaving them alone.

Edited February 11, 2013 by Lazeum

[NCdatsunZ]

Wow so many responses so quickly.

I think I am going to replace all of them, with exception to the TC rod bushings. I have two reasons for this. Number one being the frustrating nature of the job. Number two being that I'd like to replace the struts and springs as well. When that time comes around, I will decide whether to do it myself or have somebody else do it.

For now I'm replacing the alternator and voltage regulator while waiting on the insurance companies to get back to me. Then my Z will be on the road!

[EuroDat]

I had a full discussion with MSA about this. They say they was no problem to be expected.

As far as I'm concerned, I've changed everything but TC rod bushings where I've put new rubber bushings to avoid failure last spring.

The drive was sluggish and not sharp. I then switched to poly since they came with the kit anyhow, the car is much more enjoyable to drive.

Regarding the flex with poly bushings, I had to apply only 2 lbs on the tip of the TC rod where it's attached to the control arm to move it around way enough to reproduce suspension travel. Basically, I'm not convinced TC rod failure would occur because of poly bushings. Loads aren't high at all.

I'm wondering if there wasn't any other special cause creating the failure: sway bar interference, wheel interference, etc.

I'm running a fully poly set and everything goes well for now.

To the OP, the major job is definitely the spindle pin bushings that are really small & stiff. Other parts are easy to do as long as you're using proper tools. If you want to do it right, do everything (that's better) but you might be fine leaving them alone.

I know there are different versions of the PU bushes for the Tension Rod. I had the version with a shallow groove around it. This reduced the flex in the joint and made the car twitchy over bumps in corners.

Since then I have seen other bushes with a much deeper groove around the bush. Those bushes would most probably not have this problem. I opted for the T/C kit.

Chas

[Lazeum]

you might be right. Mine were having a groove inside.

NCdatsunZ, I believe you're mixing TC rod bushings and spindle pin bushings. To change TC rod bushings is a no brainer. It takes 20 minutes to change them.

Edited February 12, 2013 by Lazeum

[Wade Nelson]

Lube those bushings. Don't miss a single spot. Put lube on the metal parts you're putting them on as well, so you've got double the chance of 100% coverage. If some gets wiped off during the install, do it over. Otherwise you'll be hating life listening to those urethane bushings squeak over every bump

[EuroDat]

Hey Lazeum, How do you keep your Z unscaved in Paris. I learnt very quickly to look for a parking station for our car:bulb:. To get out they push the car in font or behind (with there car) to make room. This is like 100% use of parking space. This is the street where we stayed last time.

This post doesnt really belong here, but I was just curious.

Edited February 12, 2013 by EuroDat

[Lazeum]

Hey Lazeum, How do you keep your Z unscaved in Paris.

I just don't. The Z is 30km away in the middle of a forest in my family house I just don't go to Paris with my car (Z or DD), such a pain.

[Reverend]

One time i have visited there (southern France), almost every car had some dents But i understand why, driving in small medieval village roads is a tricky thing to do. Sorry for OT.