I am back working on a chassis that I build while working at my former employer, at emphatic customer request, at a different shop, in my spare time (drama, multi-level, multi-shop, don't ask). I am hustling to get it finished for the late spring shows. I started it 3-years ago. It has never been on the road. The project basically stalled when I left. Almost all of the bushings, a-arm, rack, rack boots, motor mounts, etc., are all showing signs of failure, or have already failed. It is likely far too complicated now to go after the supplier. Anybody know a source of actually good ones? I don't want to press in more crap. I will go with polyurethane if I can get it. This is a traditional lowrider, with hydraulics. It will be tough on rubber.
It's a shame that Global West doesn't cover the M2 suspension. Their proprietary Del-A-Lum bushings seem to be the real deal, I know the ones I had worked very well. They cover a lot of other cars, if there's any interchange with an aftermarket M2, they would be worth a look.
I am trying to figure out what the control arm bushings are. Several aftermarket suppliers sell arms with polyurethane bushings already in them, so they exist. None will spill-the-beans, so far. They'd be happy to sell new complete control arms, though....
this looks like a push in the right direction? http://www.classicperform.com/polyplus/polyplus.htm Chris
The key question is 'does that aftermarket M2 use the same bushings as OEM?'. If it does, you're home free; there's plenty of kits for a OEM front. If not, there's several places that sell poly singles for custom installs but you do need to know what to ask for (od, id, length, needs a sleeve, ect). And besides having squeeking issues, poly is generally less compliant compared to rubber. That improves handling, but can put added stress on other components. Personally, I'll use it if need be but if ride quality is important, I'll use OEM quality rubber if I can get it.
do you have access to a lathe? you can buy raw polyurethane rods, or existing bushings that are close to size. freeze the material with dry ice to machine it.
http://www.energysuspension.com/uni...type-bushings-universal-mounts-isolators.html This is where I get them. I think I remember Chassis Engineering selling the bushings as well.