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MG TD TF 1500 - Rear spring bushing lubricant

I read not too long ago about a lubricant used on rubber bushes. I am in the process of replacing them on my rear TF springs.

First, is it advised to use such as lubricant, and in fact is it needed?

Secondly, if so, what is the best one to use?

Gord Clark
Rockburn, Qué.
Gordon A. Clark

Gord; Just use a can of START-YA-BSTTTTDDDD. It will run forever.
Sandy
Sandy Sanders

Gordon,

I used silicon grease, the same stuff I use when I rebuild brake cylinders. I have a nice tin of Lockheed stuff. You want to stay away from anything with a petroleum component. I also used latex paint over an enamel primer to paint the springs, so the paint wouldn't react with the rubbers as well.

good luck,
dave
Dave Braun

Sandy, I love my can, but you'd better explain to the BB folks!

Dave,

Thanks.

GAC

Gordon A. Clark

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ianlloyd/64035825/in/set-1392334/
gordon lawson - TD 27667

It is my understanding that the bushings should be compressed enough not to turn and should flex or twist as the springs shackles go up and down. If this is correct, no lubricant should be used to "lubricate" them, but a little silicone to help get them installed if necessary shouldn't hurt.

Dallas
Dallas Congleton

This is my point for asking.

So what if they turn?

I'd love to get an informed answer on this one.

Gord Clark
Rockburn, Qué.
Gordon A. Clark

Hi, Gordon - don't know how "informed" this observation may be, but rubber flexing (as long as it doesn't exceed its stress limits) should last almost indefinitely, whereas movement always leads to wear, on one of the parts or the other.

Thus, movement equals wear equals more movement equals more wear equals MORE MOVEMENT equals MORE WEAR, etc. I've always used a light coating of soapy water to put the rubber parts in, though I'm told rubbing alcohol works well, also. Then, when it evaporates, the parts are trapped in their final positions.

Very important, also, to have the full weight on the suspension before you completely tighten all the bolts, so the rubber bits will be as close as possible to their final operating positions.

Best of luck - - Alec
Alec Darnall

This thread was discussed between 08/02/2006 and 09/02/2006

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