Front Suspension Noise

[kentw]

As the temperatures have increased here in northeast Washington state, I am noticing a "new" sound coming from my front suspension when I encounter small bumps and washboard conditions on unpaved roads. The noise in not a clunk, not really a squeak, but something like (no laughing now ) "reaaa,reaaa" when I go over bumps. I can see some fine crack lines in the rubber sway bar bushings...they look like factory. I did not notice the sound in cooler weather, that is why I am focusing on the bushings (probably harder and less squish when cold).

I think I might go ahead and replace the obvious "worn" rubber bushings...any advice would be greatly appreciated (rubber vs. urethane).

Thanks!

[toytech]

Kentw, my front end bushings are worn out too, and I'm looking at going with urethane myself. They will firm up the ride and make the steering a little more crisp, but have been know to squeak a little.

[kentw]

toytech,

I noticed that some of the performance urethane providers sell bushings with some sort of groove in them to hold the "special Teflon grease" they also sell...thought it might be a gimmick, but I guess it may be necessary to prevent the squeak?

[Pecos Slick]

Rubber has lasted all this time , go back with rubber and don't have to worry about lubing them.

[toytech]

toytech,

I noticed that some of the performance urethane providers sell bushings with some sort of groove in them to hold the "special Teflon grease" they also sell...thought it might be a gimmick, but I guess it may be necessary to prevent the squeak?

That's correct. The grooves help the lube stay in the bushing to keep them quiet. The urethane won't flex as much as rubber giving the suspension a firmer feel.

[kentw]

Has anyone else here replaced rubber with urethane, and if so, did you like the results?

[SJSO]

Typically you will encounter this symptom with the upper control arms. I've had to have quite a few of them replaced. BUT, a lot of people confuse a squeaking sound from a dry hood latch for the suspension. Just FYI. Also, it's good to start with the least expensive item.

[kentw]

Now that the weather has gotten cooler, I don't notice the "sound" any more...what did the control arm replacement set you back?

[SJSO]

Well, including the parts, (upper / lower control arms, shocks, swaybar links), alignment, and labor, you're probably looking at $1200.00.

[lowboy654]

Do it your self for about a 1/4 of that. look around, but take it in for alingment....