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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips '93 Ford F-150, Radius Arm Bushing
Q: My '93 Ford F-150 4X4 had
to have the right hand side radius arm bushing replaced about 3 years
ago. Now, 40k miles later, the front end started creaking again and an
inspection revealed that not only the right hand side needed replacing
again but the left side too. This is my first Ford pick-up but it seems
unusual to have such a part wear out. Current mileage is 115k. Mileage
at the first replacement was 75k.
- Dave L.
A:
The left side radius arm bushing needing replacement is no surprise at
your vehicle’s mileage and age. It really should have been replaced
when the right side was serviced/replaced. However, why did the right
side seem to live such a short life? If I’m not mistaken, the exhaust
on your Ford passes very close to the right side radius arm bushing. Depending
on which engine configuration your truck has there may even be a converter
that is pretty close by as well. Also, I believe that there should be
a heat shield on the right radius arm bushing to protect and deflect some
of the heat from the exhaust. Last, but of importance, the aftermarket
has replacement bushings that are made for high temperature operation.
The aftermarket came up with these high temperature replacement bushings
for a reason.
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