Rear cross member bushings leaking silicone type goo

[pahrding]

I have a couple of doughnut shaped small bushings near to the front of the rear fender just behind the tire. They are attached to a kind of frame or crossmember which goes the width of the car. One of these is dripping , not oil, but a silicone type gel. I cannot seem to find reference to it in the owner's service manual. It looks like the whole thing, crossmember and all, would need to be replaced, which looks difficult. The missing silicone does not seem to affect the car's handling so what would be the long term effect of leaving things the way they are? Also, has anyone replaced just the bushings and if so what was involved?

[maxnix]

Torching them out (Mark86T, pictures are missing) and replacement with Polyurethane is an option, but you may not appreciate the ride. Failed bushings are most definitely affecting your handling, safety and suspension wear!

A new subframe may be available from Joe. Order this month because the January 1, 2009 price increases will stun owners! Yen is up 33% against the dollar. Be Santa to your Q now.

[alexander]

I had the rear crossmember replaced on my 96Q earlier this year.Total cost including O2 sensors was $2700 at an independant shop.Ride improved dramatically.There is a photo somewhere on this board.If you don't replace soon you will have the sorest butt in town from the metal on metal ride.

[Infinitiguy19]

Sorry if this is hijacking:

Can the silicone filled ones be replace with used ones easily or must the entire assembly be replace?

Not that mine are leaking but for future refnce and other members knowledge.

[pahrding]

Torching them is probably an option if it were not for the closeness of the gas tank. It sounds like I'd have to replace the whole unit after all. Probably two grand for parts and labor. Even if I got a used one it still looks like a ***** of a job.

[Infinitiguy19]

It is a hell of a job, I know from my part car.

But the gas tank is behind the rear seat and in front of the trunk.

[maxnix]

Torching them is probably an option if it were not for the closeness of the gas tank.

When the rear subframe is removed, you can locate it away from all combustion sustaining materials.

A used one is a waste of time. The bushings will fail again sooner.