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Forum Newbie
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 2 days ago @ 11:54:01 AM
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| I recently installed new LCA bushings in my e46 330. I wanted to upgrade from stock, but have been wary of poly bushings due to their reputation for squeaking and requiring periodic lubrication. So I went with UUC's "ultimate" bushing, which they say is not exactly poly, but it's not metal, delrin or rubber, either. It's very hard, for sure, and has a bearing-like design that allows the inner bushing to rotate in the carrier. The performance is excellent. I installed them using only soap to lube the control arm. But, a month later, they have started to make a creaking, groaning sound that is a bit too "racer" for me. I want my BMW to be quiet and smooth. Any suggestions (besides turn up the radio)? I've heard that petroleum based lubricants are incompatible with some plastics. Lithium grease? Do I need to remove the bushing, or is there a trick to lubing them in place? Thanks Mike.
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Supreme Being
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: Today @ 2:20:07 PM
Posts: 86,
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My first question is whether you know for certain that the groan is in fact coming from the control arm bushing and not another suspension component. If you are sure it is the bushing, I would guess by its sealed bearing design, that the bushing is worn out & you might take advantage of UUC 's Limited warranty.
My personal opinion is that street cars should use stock bushings. All these hard and stiff bushings that everyone is installing on primarily street driven cars prematurely wear out. They also wear out other suspension components at faster rates because the bushings aren't absorbing any suspension shocks & loads. The UUC bushing uses a bearing to allow the control arm to rotate during normal up & down suspension travel, but what the bearing isn't designed to do is absorb lateral loads while rotating. Lateral loads occur while under heavy braking & when the suspension gets all twisted up riding through pot holes. Race cars don't see the volume of miles or rough roads that street cars do. That's why these bearings will last longer in a race car.
Good luck!
Mike Morris
Schneller BMW Performance
26 Middle Rd Unit 1-2
Newbury, MA 01951
978.465.2002
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