Q45 Lower Control Arm Bushing

[Damicci]

I saw one thread about this in particular and the guy determined it wasn't his issue.

I am getting wheel shaking at about 55mph and the alignment shop tells me I need new lower control arm bushings. The spindle (mounts to the lower control arm) bushing is bad. and control arm to subframe is bad.

Is there any option for bushings or am i going to have to replace the whole arm?

[Q45tech]

If you want to return any car to brand new ride and handling, it is necessary to periodically replace all rubber and suspension arms. The rubber cracks from ozone, salt, heat and just wears out. The slop stresses the metal arms and their frame attachment points.

Just one of the reasons a 10 year old car loses 80% of it's brand new value to start over you need $20,000 in parts and labor. Most are satisfied with spending half and getting kinda like new ride and handling.

I'll bet the third link and kingpin and it's 2 bearing need replacing also. It is all a group of triangles where any side failure takes the others with it eventually.

[maxnix]

You didn't state mileage nor maintenance history as required in the sticky above, but if shocks are due, I would consider doing both sides as Q45tech suggested at the same time along with shocks and other rubber (bushings, bump stops and gaiters).

Check your steering rod ends also.

[Damicci]

Sorry,

I honestly don't know the maintenance history. In my ignorance i never checked the vin.

car 194k miles. I am well aware that things need to be replaced. I don't mind not having like new riding comfort as the car is on coilovers as it is. I was just curious if there are option besides replacing the whole lower control arm.

Thanks.

[captainluigi]

Yes. The Z32 Nismo is a direct replacement. Try it you will like it. You may consider replacing BJ w/ Z32 unit. Spicer makes a VG unit. You must use the Z32 BJ seat as well.

[Damicci]

So will the Energy Suspension Z32 lower control arm bushings work or Nismo only?

[captainluigi]

Yes. But they wear a higer shore value. Nismo appx. 80 . E.S. ? don't know.

I went w/O.E. where avail. Just trying to return close to 96 original.

The suspension rebuild was an easy thing.

[Damicci]

Awesome thanks for the info.

[seattlesanman]

Any good sources for other than rubber bushings?

[captainluigi]

Energy Suspension makes poly but=possible degradation in suaveness.

Read Wes's write ups on susp. mods.

What is the prob w/rubber?