Front suspension rubber trunnion bearing question

[warwick-steve]

Hi
I would like to know please what is the typical life of the rubber bearing/bushes. My car was rebuilt in 2010 approx 18000 miles ago.
I have read both that they can last for decades and also that they can break down in 5 years!! What is typical?
My car just had its annual MOT safety check and there were no issues but I would like to have an idea.
Does replacing involve a complete strip down of the suspension?
Thanks
Steve

 

[steveg]

Steve - Are you talking about the upper trunnion or the lower A-arm bushes?

 

[warwick-steve]

Hi Steve
I was mainly thinking about the upper trunnion.
Being interested in keeping the car in good condition I was searching previous threads on this excellent forum and came across information about the suspension etc and was interested to know why and how to go about changing the bushes which have a limited life. I got the impression that it is best to stay with rubber but that their life can be short.
Thanks for responding
Steve

 

[steveg]

The upper trunnion bushes are inexpensive and relatively easy to change. Support the front end by the spring pans so there's no tension on the upper shocks. Grab the tire and move in and out. You'll be able to see any play in the bush. You can also see play in the wheel bearing.

With the car in this position and tire removed, it's easy to remove the fulcrum pins and insert new bushes.

Lots of folks like the offset poly bushes. IMO if you installed these with a little grease on the pin, they'd probably last longer and you could get yourself a little negative camber.

 

[warwick-steve]

Steve - thanks, that is a great help
Steve