subframe inserts

[TravisD]

OK, so what is with the bushing kits inluding inserts, not bushings for the subframe? I'm specifically talking about the energy suspension kit, and the rs*r kit (which I have). I opened the box up, and I'm like "*expletive deleted* I should have paid more attention to the contents. I guess "master bushing kit" doesn't mean ALL the bushings :P It really seems like an "it's a LOT cheaper to make" deal. So, I have heard about spacers, can't find much on inserts, although what I really wanted was to replace the bushings. Even though it's a bish. I can't find much about the inserts. Are they really any good, or should I get some new bushings? How well, and for how long is this going to tighten things up? I won't be doing any serious racing, no drifting, but I ain't exactly going to baby this car. A little auto-X here and there.
Modified by TravisD at 10:04 AM 6/23/2006

[TravisD]

I've been looking around, and I still can't find many comments on tightening up the rear. It seems like the spacers/collars can change understeer/oversteer characteristics and allow some tuning of the rear setup...that's a little above my head. I just want to get rid of wheel hop and compliance in the subframe. I also called around, and I can't seem to find anyone who can press out the subframe bushings around here (it's too big for their equipment, plus I guess the design doesn't allow them to be simply pressed out?). I've already got the rear dismantled to have the other bushings installed, so dropping the subframe isn't that big of a deal (I've got the transmission disconnected too, as my engine is about ready to be swapped in), so most of the work is done. Now that I've gotten under there and test fitted a couple, I can see how it might be better than I first suspected, but those bushings still have 200K miles on them. Does anyone have any feedback on this type of insert?
Modified by TravisD at 7:07 AM 6/24/2006

[BadMojo]

Yeah, most companies make collars or spacers so you don't have to remove the OE bushings (which, by all accounts, is no fun). I've never seen replacement bushings of hard rubber or derlin, but there are the solid aluminum bushings.

You do have a good point about not wanting to use collars on bushings that have 200K+ miles on them.

I've never done it, but you can burn the rubber part of the bushing out and then cut through the metal outer part.

Search around for "aluminum subframe bushings" and you should find some reviews and tips on installing. SPL parts just lowered the price on theirs.

[TravisD]

I found some NISMO bushings. They are $60 each! I saw the Al bushing replacements SPL are selling before. I was concerned about those adding too much N/V/H as this is primarily a street car. A little bit is OK. A medium bit is even mostly OK. Meh, maybe I'll give the inserts a spin by themselves for now and form an opinion for posterity. After installing them, I'm more curious to see how it turns out. (+1 for ease) The front I had to really jam in there, so they might be OK. The back slipped right in and have a tiny bit of wiggle room. I'm not sure how effective that'll be (I did put the correct ones in the back, the inserted part is noticably wider for the back. Also, the instructions with the rs*r set are pretty good. The kit is very polished). I went ahead and decided not to drop the cash for a new diff right yet, so I could do it then. Or I might try a combo affair of inserts/lower spacers if the inserts don't do enough. Then new OEM bushings with inserts or NISMO bushings if necessary. Thanks for your input.

[Bronze MFP]

get aluminum bushings or the MMR bushings on ebay (I have them and they rock)Yes removing the stock bushing is a royal pain in the ***, but it's worth it in the end. I had collars for a while, but with worn out bushings, the collars wont help. You need a sawzall and a torch and an afternoon worth of time, but you will love your car again when you are done.