Replacement set of rubber suspension bushes ('96 Audi)
Discussion
I'm having a bit of a nightmare with this, so I hope you guys can point me in the right direction.
My '96 Audi A4 (2.6 V6, 125k) is begging for a complete set of suspension bushes, basically a considerable amount of knocking all across the car's suspension over even very small bumps. However, I don't have much interest in going down the polyurethane route, partly due to the expense and partly because I'm trying to make it ride properly, not stiffen it up! I just want the thing to ride quietly and nicely again. So it made sense to me to get a set of original rubber suspension bushes and refresh the whole lot to factory spec.
However, it's proving right difficult to find a set. Eurocarparts do sell them individually, but even if I could find out all the ones I need (which, without photos on their site and with needing the car day to day, is gonna be tricky), then it'll be seriously expensive to buy them like that. Nearest I seem to have got is this set but it's only the front, and I'm not even sure if I can get those sent here yet.
Any suggestions?
My '96 Audi A4 (2.6 V6, 125k) is begging for a complete set of suspension bushes, basically a considerable amount of knocking all across the car's suspension over even very small bumps. However, I don't have much interest in going down the polyurethane route, partly due to the expense and partly because I'm trying to make it ride properly, not stiffen it up! I just want the thing to ride quietly and nicely again. So it made sense to me to get a set of original rubber suspension bushes and refresh the whole lot to factory spec.
However, it's proving right difficult to find a set. Eurocarparts do sell them individually, but even if I could find out all the ones I need (which, without photos on their site and with needing the car day to day, is gonna be tricky), then it'll be seriously expensive to buy them like that. Nearest I seem to have got is this set but it's only the front, and I'm not even sure if I can get those sent here yet.
Any suggestions?
Check each part very carefully before replacing anything as costs go up quickly.
Replace the control arms, not just the bushes, as the ball joints (which are parts of the arm) will also be worn.
Don't know if it's available in the UK, but here in the US there is kit of all the control arms and front roll-bar links available.
Make sure the steering track rod assemblies are also replaced.
Then a four-wheel alignment.
With that mileage and age, may also need shocks and top strut mounts.
Known problem with A4 and A6 models.
Replace the control arms, not just the bushes, as the ball joints (which are parts of the arm) will also be worn.
Don't know if it's available in the UK, but here in the US there is kit of all the control arms and front roll-bar links available.
Make sure the steering track rod assemblies are also replaced.
Then a four-wheel alignment.
With that mileage and age, may also need shocks and top strut mounts.
Known problem with A4 and A6 models.
Thanks guys. Ball joints is a good thought, perhaps I should also replace any arm that has one. Springs and dampers have been changed, top mounts seemed okay too, in any case the noise appears to be coming from lower than that.
I know ECP parts have a dodgy reputation, but they knock out Lemförder stuff too, is that any good?
I think I'd try and get a full geometry setup once it's all done, but this is obviously funds permitting. I thought the bushes would be a good economical place to start.
I know ECP parts have a dodgy reputation, but they knock out Lemförder stuff too, is that any good?
I think I'd try and get a full geometry setup once it's all done, but this is obviously funds permitting. I thought the bushes would be a good economical place to start.
steveo3002 said:
ive had nothing but disapointment with ecp quality , nothing worse than replacing stuff twice
might be worth a trawel on ebay.de , ive had some cheaper deals from there
Sadly even ebay.de isn't helping me much here. I've found a couple of suppliers that can make me up a full set from individual bushes for reasonable money, but, I had the wheels off earlier and the rubbers look and feel to be in decent condition.. might be worth a trawel on ebay.de , ive had some cheaper deals from there
What else could be causing these symptoms, or is visual diagnosis of rubber bushes worth sodall?
Would be interested to see how much difference the Poly bushes make to ride on an otherwise standard car, cant imagine it will really make that much difference to ride quality, my dad has an MG ZT apparently they have high quality Poly bushes fromt he factory, or at least the early ones did and that is fine.
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