Hello,

I'm about to replace my right hand control arm bushing tomorrow as there is already a small tear in the rubber. This was probably due to my bad shock on that corner. The problem is I've just read the service manual and it says "Caution - Replace control arm bushings in pairs." I'm assuming they meant both sides. What is the reason for this? Would it matter that I only replace 1 as I have only 1 new bushing and it's pretty hard to get a hold of it in my area.

Thanks!

John

 

The compliance between new and old rubber can be quite large. The car will pull to one, brake to one side and in general, do things that won't make your day. In pairs for sure!

 

Given the labour (drop the subframe) to get to them, I'd replace both at once.

 

Do both otherwise you'll be sorry for reasons stated above.

 

AND, replace the two inner ball joints as well! The subframe needs to be lowered/removed to get at these...you can also remove axles to replace the inner ball joints, but if the subframe is off, do it.

 

most things are better replaced in pairs.. brake rotors.. pads.. axles...struts.. yadda.

 

Ok ok, I get the picture!! Thanks guys. Do I really need to lower the subframe to do this? As I see it, it looks like I can get the control arm bushings out even without dropping the subframe. All I need to do is make a special puller to get it out, or buy the puller from MINI.

John

 

Drop the sub-frame! Life will be much easier...you'll think it not necessary until you get into the job. The tool sometimes get ledge in the boring...so drop the frame far enough to remove the bushing mounts.

 

Argh!! I thot i could get away with just using the tool. How hard is it to drop the subframe?

John

 

Are you replacing the bushings with stock or aftermarket? If stock, just the bushing or the bushing with the carrier? The stock bushings will need to be pressed into the carriers (if not replacing the whole unit) then the control arm will need to be pressed into the bushing. I don't think you will be getting the arm into the stock bushing without the factory tool or dropping the subframe.

The powerflex bushings are easier to install, especially getting the control arms into them.

I would recommend a beginner completely drop the subframe to work on it out of the car. T his way you can find a shop to press out the bushings if you don't have the right tools.

The subframe is not as bad as it looks. Remove the front bumper, pop the tierods, remove the outer ball joint and steering shaft bolts, remove/bend the exhaust heat shield and release the powersteering reservoir...

...Yeah, maybe this is an advanced job. It reall depends on your level of self efficacy.

If you are going to do it, there are a few people here, including myself, with experience and will help you through it.

 

Oh yeah, search this forum for "wishbone bushing install" That will give you some idea of what is involved.

 

Hmm.....sounds a bit tough to do, but I will be having a local shop here do the replacement, so it's their problem, I just want to give them an outline on how to do it. Why are the powerflex's easier to install? Was there an increase in vibration coming into the car with the powerflex bushings? This is the main reason I didn't go for powerflex bushings.

John

 

For dropping the subframe https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...23#post1420223 , for the thread referenced by 002 https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=63869 .

For the Powerflex question there are many different answers; here is mine plus an alternative to pressing out the old and pressing in the Poly https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=98700 .

Today I’m installing a new control arm bushing for one that only lasted 1,000 miles before loosing its internal fluid.

 

They are more difficult because the control arm has an interference fit into the bushing. Based on how much effort is required to remove the arm from the bushing, it is going to be tuff to get the arm back in without a special tool. The powerflex bushings just slide onto the arm.

I didn't notice any extra vibration, but it will hit a little harder on potholes, etc... I put these in a girlfriends car and she said they feel smoother.