Rear Suspension Bushings

Anybodyhome

Anybodyhome

USN Retired (1973-1993)
Supporting Member
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Jun 15, 2020
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Location
Nashville, NC
Okay, folks. My 2014 JKU with almost 120k miles developed an annoying squeak on the driver side rear end when hitting bumps, rolling over speed bumps or just my large 290lb ass getting in. I can push the rear bumper up & down to identify it and I've crawled underneath and think I've narrowed it down to the upper control arm. Nonetheless, I'll get it on jackstands this weekend and try to diagnose further.
Oh, forgot to mention, the shocks were replaced about 3-4 years ago.

Not to dwell, but considering replacing all the rear suspension bushings. Not something I've done before, but what are the inherent difficulties and issues I may be faced with? Any reason this isn't an afternoon driveway project? And, finally, what type bushings do you recommend- rubber or poly?
 
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Replace them all while you're in there.
Poly is pretty much always better.
It's an easy enough job, especially if you have a press. But it can be done using wrenches and an impact wrench. You should be able to do it in one day with either method.
 
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Not on my JK but I replaced bushings on my WJ. I did have 1 bolt that was seized inside the bushing. Needed a torch to heat it up and get it out. Cooked the rubber to where it caught on fire. My lesson learned was to use PB blaster or something similar a day or so before tackling the job.
 
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Never did it, I assume you are referring to the control arm bushings? If so I wouldn’t think to difficult. I would suggest spraying the bolts / nuts with a rust loosing product like PB Blaster or something the night before. Torquing the bolts to 125ft lb is rough.
 
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If you do go poly route it will firm up the ride . Some Jeepers don’t like poly as it firms up to much .
When I switched from Core “poly bushing” to Steer Smarts Yeti “rubber bushing “ trackbar ride smoothed out in a good way .
Def as a couple other members mentioned possibly need a press .
Replace treaded bolts with 9/16 grade 8 shouldered bolts .Will get rid of any slop .
 
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