Rear raft bushes - a warning

[chrisP]

Hi, I just wanted to say that I have been doing a front suspension rebuild. After taking the rafts off and inspecting the rear bushes, i was able to take the inner metal sleeve out with my fingers. They looked ok from below while on the car, but had completely perished when viewed from above. I believe the design of them causes this - as any oil leaks (not that I have many) seem to pool in the top of the bushes and degrade the rubber. Just something to be aware of and address if required.
Chris

[Giniw]

Thanks a lot!

[John_W]

Aw Gawd!

I've just done with Rambo and Enright getting me to take out my seats and rip up my carpets to check for outrigger rust, and now I've got chrisP feeding my paranoia about the suspension.


Never mind - I've just picked up my car from the local garage and it has a brand new MOT with no advisories.

John

[HJ2]

Did you already check your turbo for internal leakage?

[chrisP]

I don't want to cause anyone any extra work, but if you have access to check that it could be worth while. As you can see from the picture oil and contaminants have effected the rubber and it is very difficult to tell when it is in place with the underframe bolted up. Don't get me started on fixing sticky shifter cables, worn wheel bearings and rust everywhere

[chrisP]

On a plus point SJ sportcars are turning down the top raft bushes on a lathe - to the correct dimensions for the no longer serviced front raft bushes

[HJ2]

Top tip!

[Artaban]

John,
Make a list of jobs to do. Drive it in the spring/summer; pull it apart in the winter. Nothing worse than a great spell of weather and the car on axle stands.
Andy

[John_W]

Andy,
Sounds like I need to get a heater for the garage. Don't worry, I'll be driving it.
John