Poly Graphite bushings

[Paul D.]

I am rebuilding the front suspension as part of a motor rebuild project that has gotten way out of hand. I replaced all the control arm bushings 20 years/ 20K miles ago with GM replacements which began to weathercrack within 5 yrs. I am looking at some poly-graphite bushings as a replacement and would like to hear from someone who has used them. I am not concerned about ultimate performance, just trying to get a longer life appearance wise. I am not considering straight poly bushings due to the noise issues. My concern is that the poly-graphite may be just as bad.
Are they a worthwhile upgrade or would I do just as well with quality (Moog?) OEM rubber replacement? Listening for the voice of experience.
Car is not a candidate for Flight Judging so no correct appearance issues.

[Michael H.]

Re: Poly Graphite bushings

I replaced all the control arm bushings 20 years/ 20K miles ago with GM replacements which began to weathercrack within 5 yrs. I am looking at some poly-graphite bushings as a replacement and would like to hear from someone who has used them.

Five years is not a common life span for these bushings. They should last longer than that. If the control arm shaft bolts were tightened/torqued with the control arm in any position other than that of standard ride height, it will cause new bushings to fail long before their time. The vehicle should be on it's feet, at normal ride height, before the bolts are torqued so the rubber is in a relaxed/normal condition.

If you use the solid bushings, you'll hate the amount of road noise and shudder that will be transmitted into the drivers compartment.

[Paul D.]

Re: Poly Graphite bushings

Michael, thanks for the reply.
So you think the poly- graphite bushings would give the same results as regular polyurethane? I know from listening to others that I don't want that. I let a frame shop put the last set in. I guess I will do it this time myself to insure correct torque procedure. No motor in car during last procedure and I doubt they went to the trouble of pulling the frame down before tightening the bolts. Thanks for the input.

[Michael W.]

Re: Poly Graphite bushings

Putting a car on blocks and letting the suspension 'hang' over the winter is also a cause of cracked bushings.

Nix on the poly bushings from me also. They're the imperfect solution for a problem that doesn't exist.