Re: Sombrero - cross member bushing replacement
Just for your reference here is an original
Just for your reference here is an original
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Re: Sombrero - cross member bushing replacement
That is what the ones that were on the car looked like - 2 tabs per side, 4 total per bushing. Yours look remarkably clean and pliable for their age.
Since there are virtually no originals or original looking items available from all the usual vendors I am going to go with the ones with 6 tabs that are being offered.EdComment
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Re: Sombrero - cross member bushing replacement
As previously promised, I called America's Finest Corvette to ask about their sombrero bushings - recall that the write up on their website says the bushings are NCRS correct for 66 and later Corvettes but they will modify the bushings to be NCRS correct for 63-65 Corvettes.
I asked Mike, the owner, what modification do they do to bushings and what is the difference between the bushings for different years. He said all the bushings are identical, or start out that way - to make them 63-65 correct they cut off two tabs from each bushing so the early cars will only have 4 tabs, later years have 6. But he was also quick to mention that this does present a potential safety issue and unless you are having the car judged it is better to stay with the 6 tabs. Other members that commented in this thread recommended the same. I am going to stay with 6 tabs - this should not be a deduction as it corrects a safety flaw - much like having a fire extinguisher aboard. Now we know - thanks to all.EdComment
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Re: Sombrero - cross member bushing replacement
An update to my prior comments:
First the manual indicated the bushings should be pressed in using a pipe of suitable diameter to press on the OD of the bushing. My mistake attempting to use a hammer for the install. Still would appreciate it if someone could measure the OD of a new GM (discontinued) bushing to confirm a tenth of an inch is an acceptable oversize on the aftermarket bushings. The measurement was compaired to the OD of the used 1963 bushing. After looking closely at various online photos and the ones I have it appears their may be at least two different bushing manufactures. I also found this bushing advertised as manufactured in the USA. If it is not mentioned one can usually assume the part is an import.
The factory original bushing has a gap between the outside shell halves, no rubber, or very little rubber in the gap. The gap appears to be wider than the reproduction bushings.
The bushings I received had rubber vulcanized in the gap area and it was difficult to discern exactly were the steel parting line was for this reason.
The bushing I purchased is Pictured here;
Next to the original 63 bushing;
The outer shell was, in my opinion, very thin. Less than 1/2 the thickness of the 1963 shell. Of course there are more tabs. The bushing sans any discernible gap can be purchased for as little as $39.00 at A1 auto.
Show below is an original 1963 bushing next to the one I purchased;
It appears there may be a better replacement out there, the USA manufactured one. I am quite confident the one I purchased was an import but I am unable to confirm this.
Anyone else have some pictures to share that might help members pick the best reproduction available?
If anyone was wondering where the sombrero name came from just look at the cross-member without the bushing installed it will become obvious.
Thanks
RickComment
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Re: Sombrero - cross member bushing replacement
Ed,
I agree with your conclusion, just accept the deduction if you get one. The safety argument may not work, know it has not for me at times (variable by judges) for brake line connectors. Have fun.
Back in the 70's aftermarket vendors offered solid plates to replace the bolt system since these had the habit of pulling out during 1/4 mile stuff.Comment
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