Metal vs Rubber control arm bushings

[Pyrotechnic]

I know for 67-72 C10's it is a popular upgrade to use a complete 73-87 front suspension as an upgrade. One of the biggest difference between the two front ends is the style of bushing used in the upper and lower control arm pivots. 67-72 C10's used metal threaded bushings and 73-87 C10's used rubber bushings like a car.

Is one bushing more desirable than the other, in terms of handling and durability? One interesting fact is that 73-87 3/4 and 1 ton trucks continued to use the metal threaded bushing just like older trucks had always used. This action alone tells me that GM didn't think the rubber bushings would last or perform well under heavy use.

Would it be safe to say that the older metal bushings are more durable and will last longer?

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by Pyrotechnic

I know for 67-72 C10's it is a popular upgrade to use a complete 73-87 front suspension as an upgrade. One of the biggest difference between the two front ends is the style of bushing used in the upper and lower control arm pivots. 67-72 C10's used metal threaded bushings and 73-87 C10's used rubber bushings like a car.

Is one bushing more desirable than the other, in terms of handling and durability? One interesting fact is that 73-87 3/4 and 1 ton trucks continued to use the metal threaded bushing just like older trucks had always used. This action alone tells me that GM didn't think the rubber bushings would last or perform well under heavy use.

Would it be safe to say that the older metal bushings are more durable and will last longer?

Yes.

[Pyrotechnic]

Thanks! I think the other big advantage is that the metal won't rot like the rubber ones, whether it be from age or oil/fluid contamination. Being able to pump in new grease to flush out any contaminates is a nice touch too.

Does anyone happen to know approximately how many miles the metal bushings last on a typical C10? I know variables like road conditions,how the truck was driven, and how often the bushing were greased will change things. Just trying to get a ballpark idea of how durable they are in a half ton application.

[chevy_mike]

If properly maintained, they should outlast you. Typically neglect is what kills them.

[69gmcc10]

when I rebuilt my upper and lower control arms this spring, 7 of the 8 bushings were in perfect shape on the inside, even the seals were still holding grease. I think the one that was bad was cross threaded from the factory or kinked, there was no play or water in it, but the threads were worn out. Incidentally the arm itself would not align with new shafts when I tried to assemble them, so I got a new arm. problem solved... So in short, Yeah They last Forever... if lubed on a semi regular basis...

[MCB Matt]

The latest and greatest in the market when it comes to bushings for our trucks is Delrin!

It is a VERY hard plastic like material that will not squeak, wear or allow any deflection!

Ridetech just released these in their new StreetGrip kits. You can take a look at them in our post here: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=721503

They are an investment you will never have to replace and nobody that runs them has ever regretted it!

MCB