2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Control arm bushings

[1tuffram]

Is there a way or test procedure to check if the control arm bushings are bad? Installed the 98-99HD steering and going thru the rest of the front end replacing any other worn components while I'm at it.

 

[fest3er]

Only time and miles. Over 90k miles or 10 years on them? They're worn out. I let mine go to well over 200k. After replacing them, I had to relearn how to steer the truck.

 

[1tuffram]

20 yrs and 122,000, so maybe they are due.

 

[cumminsram95]

Check for play in the bushings. I use a pry bar between the control arm and mount to see if there is play in the bushing. If its worn you should see play.

 

[fest3er]

20 yrs and 122,000, so maybe they are due.

No 'maybe'. They *are* due. The trouble with the pry bar method is you cannot apply enough force by hand to approximate the forces the truck itself puts on the bushings. You almost have to take it as a given that they are worn out by 120k miles.

Besides, the longer you delay, the harder it will be to remove the old bushings. More so if you live in salt country.

If you really wanted to see, you could install a camera down there and record what the control arms do while you drive the truck. But it still comes down to mileage and age. 90k and 20 years? Replace them anyway.

 

[cumminsram95]

It works. I have used this method to diagnose many suspension problems with great results. I use it everyday in my shop and have even found problems others have missed.

 

[JMcCoy]

If you use 4wd at all, I would upgrade. Start spraying them with penetrator now. You will be glad you did.