Differential Bushing Install
 

I have spent hours looking at threads (especially rotorbrain) regarding the differential bushing install. As I have access to the tools, lifts, etc, I am confident I can complete this install. After all, I just did my pillowballs a few weeks ago.

Anyway, my question actually relates to the differential bushings I purchased from Ramy (FDNewbie). In trying to compare them to other diff bushings, it looks like mine have substantial "lips" on them. In other words, other bushings seem to be of equal diameter all the way through, while mine have a greater diameter on the edges, and are thinner in the middle. With the difference in diameter, won't I destroy the edges when I press them in?

I was especially interested in rotorbrain's thread, as he too installed a set he got from Ramy, but I could not see the pics in his thread (red Xs). I will pm both rotorbrain and Ramy on this as well.

Just curious if anyone has any input on this.

What kind of diff bushings are those? I have the solid diff bushings from RP and they only have the "lip" on one side.

Some new ones Ramy came out with. You will have to talk to him about specifics.

That is why I am concerned about having a lip on both sides. I think I am going to destroy one lip while I am pressing the bushing in...The thick lip is marked "outer"...

I'm PMing you with some information concerning your bushing install ;o)

Those interested learning more about the bushings can PM me, I have a limited personal supply of full poly kits available for those who are interested, let's not muck up caredden's thread please ;o).

thanks guys,
Rob L.

lol i have a full article written on how to do that... with lots of pics.. was supposed to put it in RXTuner.

I installed all the other polyurethane bushings from FDnewbie's set and the shock bushing also has a substantial lip on it which I was worried about cutting. My advice is to get a second person to make sure alignment stays nice and true on the bushing while you're pushing it in. The squishiness of the polyurethane is both a blessing and a curse getting them in as they what to jump out in all directions with the press coming down so go slow and use plenty of grease so the bushing doesn't stick in one spot. Also, watch the travel on the press as I was using a socket on the outside edges of the shock bushing and cut a little bit of the lip on the underside when the press travelled too far. Other than that though, they're not too bad getting in...

nkeehn,

Thanks for the input. I will certainly keep those points in mind when I am pressing these in.

thanks again,

Charlie

How did it go Charlie?

I just replaced my bushings about 3 weeks ago. They went right in with no tearing. A second person and a press are a must!!! I had more luck with pressing the old ones out toward the center of the bracket. Its a major pain, but it is sooooo worth it

How are you liking your new diff bushings?

:)

Rob,

I pressed mine in two weeks ago and the actual pressing in of the bushings went very well. Hardest part for me was getting the diff bushing mount off of the diff. I just couldn't get the leverage to get the four nuts on top to turn loose, so I ended up dropping my diff out and then removed the mount. Anyway...on to the bushings.

I was a little bit nervous prior to install due to the lip on both sides; however, I lubed them up with the provided lubricant and took my time pressing them in (used hydraulic press). I don't remember what size socket I used, but I just slowly kept applying pressure until they seated all the way in. You just have to be careful to ensure that the bushings start in "squarely" vice "canted" to one side. Also, ensure that you press all the way down to make sure the inner lip protrudes. You will be able to see it when you are done.

These new bushings eliminate the need for the spacer used with the stock diff bushings. My major concern with aftermarket bushings was drivetrain noise...I just didn't want to have a "whining" noise. These bushings make NO noise at all! I have driven on them for two weeks now, so I am pretty confident making a statement on them. I recently changed out my pillow balls (about three months ago), so I think this just further made sure my rear end is riding quiet and pretty much in place (old bushings had leaked out on to the mount).

I think they are a terrific product and I highly recommend them. Thanks Rob and Ramy!

Charlie

Did you have wheel hop before the install? If so, after? glad you're diggin em.

good information bump ^