G2 - Understanding Frame/Suspension Bushings

[Trent3]

Well, I am nearing the time for a frame paint job and may go with powder coating. Up until now, I have have most eveything apart and back together except the bushings. I see 4 control arm bushings at the front center of the cart, and 2 rear swing suspension bushings. Do these drive out? Is there any rubber or other material involved? What about lubrication when I reassemble?

Also, any issues or things to look out for with the powder coating idea?

Thank You, Trent

[Mike Mac]

It is important to torque the bushings bolts and shock bolts to the recomended value. I highly recomend you never seize the bolt shanks and all the rest of the assembeled parts. Makes for easy dissambly the next time.

Don't know if rubber bushings can handle 400 degrees during powder coat process. Quite possable it can. I've seen wood and card board handle it!

[pachanga90]

I wouldn't run the bushings thru the powder-coat.Have them pressed out,plug the holes(powder-coaters have plugs for stuff like that usually).Then press the bushings in after.That much heat for a few seconds is one thing,but to cook them like that would likely bring bad results,especially on old,fatigued bushings.Ask the Coater to be sure,but I work in a Suspension-Shop,and I wouldn't recommend it personally.Hope this helps.

[Mike Mac]

There ya go Trent, Thanks Changa!! Was thinking the same thing, about asking the coaters!

WAs getting some fencing done, and they were showing me wood and cardboard that parts were sitting on in the oven. They came out coated, even the cardboard!! They got an order about coating some PVC pipe. Said they were going to experiment with that. Got a trade journal some weeks back, Article about powder coating MDF (wood)! Said they use lower temps. for that!!