Quote:
Originally Posted by Daox
As I wind down on fixing the Sunfire, I'm starting work on the Civic. So, last night I put it in the garage to start the head replacement, and check out the suspension. I removed the front driver's side wheel to check out that control arm bushing. This is what I found:
So, it definitely needs replacing. There is a groove worn in the metal from the control arm digging into the control arm mount, so its been that way for some time. I agree with ecomodded that it doesn't look like its adjustable. I should be able to just throw in a new bushing and be good. But, I'll probably go have a 'free alignment check' done somewhere to make sure.
What is the best replacement/fix for this? I see energy suspension has some polyurethane bushings. They're substantially more expensive than the OEM style. But, if they last they might be worth it? |
Those are the compliance bushings, and it is very common for them to tear like that. I'd have to double check the FSM, but I think the recommended fix is actually to replace the control arms. To replace just the bushing, it needs to be pressed out and it's not easy since the metal sleeve is fairly thin and can be fused by rust.
I didn't have a press readily available, so I cut them out with a hacksaw. Labor intensive, but it did the job. I went with the polyurethane bushings (specifically Prothane 8-215). I prefer a more firm suspension, they were cheaper ($40) than what I was finding from Honda, and most importantly for me... you don't need a press to install them.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Daox
I also started taking things apart to do the head. I mostly just got the intake plumbing removed last night. I'm still amazed by the lack of rust... it makes working on the car SO easy.
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I am so glad I don't live in rust-prone areas. ALL cars around here are like that.
You will likely find 2-3 engine mounts torn. The front and rear handle the reaction from the engine torque and tend to tear, and the fluid filled mount on the driver's side is not very robust. I went with polyurethane inserts on the front and rear mounts and it adds a significant amount of NVH. It's enough to bother me and I typically have no problem with
solid mounted V8s. Go with stock engine mounts if you have to replace.
Are you eliminating power steering while you are in there?