Swingarm bushings - small suspension parts that play an important role

What part of the suspension would you say is the most important? Various elements may come to mind, for example, stabilizers, steering rack, shock absorbers. However, from a mechanical point of view, the bushings on the wishbones are extremely important. Their simple design allows metal elements to be mounted and combined with other accessories without maintaining full rigidity.

Pendulum bushings and their role in the suspension

The main job of the control arm bushing is to effectively integrate the control arms, connectors, and other elements into the vehicle's structure, allowing them to do their job. The transverse arm bushings are not a rigid connection, since during the operation of the entire vehicle, loads in any direction act on the suspension elements. Therefore, they could not work closely together. The consequence of this design will be the bending of the components and their cracking depending on the hardness of the material.

Another task of the bushings on the pendulums is to dampen vibrations that occur during movement. The first link that absorbs vibrations is the tire. However, he is not able to capture all possible vibrations, which is why some of them are taken over by the pendulum bushings and other suspension elements. The rest of the shocks are absorbed by shock absorbers and springs.

Symptoms of wear of the silent blocks of the steering knuckle

It is not difficult to recognize irregularities in the operation of the bushings on the control levers. When driving over bumps and even on a surface with a small amount of bumps, characteristic knocks are felt. They are caused by the looseness of the manufactured elements. They are not usually metallic, but give the impression of being subdued. This is how wear marks appear on the pivot arm bushings. At the same time, you can notice that the car does not respond so accurately to commands from the steering wheel and works with a slight delay. What is extremely important, the wear of the sleeves will always make itself felt. Why? After driving through bumps, pits or obstacles, the suspension eliminates play on the pendulum hub, making a knock, and only then dampens vibrations through the remaining shock-absorbing elements.

The bushings on the levers are worn out - what's next?

If you already know that the car requires the replacement of silent blocks on the levers, do not delay it. Over time, the steering accuracy will deteriorate, but it should be noted that this process is not so abrupt in its course. The bushings on the levers can be replaced in a machine shop if the lever model allows it. Unfortunately, in some cars you will have to buy the entire element.

Replacing the rocker bushing - on one or both sides?

If it is possible to press the bushings on the old levers, and their condition is good, then you can only try to change the rubber-metal fittings. At the same time, remember that you should not do this only on one side. If you are replacing swingarm bushings, do so on both sides. These are parts that wear out relatively quickly, even after 15 miles, and any careless maintenance and reassembly speeds up the process.

The cost of replacing the pendulum silent block

The total price should include not only the purchase of spare parts, but also labor. One transverse arm bush, depending on the brand and quality, costs between 50-10 euros. Pressing it into the pendulum costs several tens of zlotys, depending on the workshop. So it might be worth buying a used pendulum if it's in good condition. 

Or polyurethane bushings?

Since rubber swingarm bushings can wear out so quickly, maybe it's worth investing in polyurethane bushings? Their hardness is greater than that of classically used ones, they also have increased strength. However, suspension stiffness and steering precision come at a price. Their work has a strong impact on driving comfort, because these bushings dampen vibrations much less. When they begin to wear out, their swingarm bushings must be replaced immediately. When using polyurethanes, it is necessary to replace all bushings on the levers, otherwise the old elements wear out quickly. 

You don't have much influence on swing arm bushing wear. However, you can replace them with high quality parts so you don't have to worry about their lifespan. When using a car for sports purposes, polyurethanes will be useful, but they do not make much sense in everyday cars.