A-arm bushings- how bad do they get?
 

Hi,
I posted this on the early s forum, but I wanted some more feedback.

I am contemplating a front suspension overhaul. I have already done the rear suspension. I read somewhere that the a-arm bushings don't detiorate as badly as the spring plate bushings and often don't need replacing. Is that true or should they be replaced? I know my spring plate bushings were completely shot.

Besides torn boots, are there any visual clues as to the condition of the front suspension without taking everything apart?

Thanks,

There is lateral movement on the bushings and I've seen pics of the thrust part of the bushing gone. They wear.

you could also poke it with something to see if the rubber is hard -- when old it gets hard (unless it crumbles away)

On my 914 (identical setup to early 911) I could see that the a-arm was no longer concentric in the carrier - the top of the bushing had become quite compressed. Getting them apart is big fun...

Dave

those stock front bushings are good for only 40k- 50k mi IMO. Try driving on the hy at 65mph and rapidly shake the car between the two lines in your lane and watch the front try and catch up to your steering wheel. Naturally Elephant Racing bushings are the best class act available.