E70 bushings

[snow_bound26]

So I've noticed that when I search for replacement bushings, almost everything that comes up had the various control arm and suspension pieces they are connected with as part of the kits. Is there a reason for this? Does no one sell just the bushings? Are these just as prone to needing to be replaced as the BMW 3 and 5 series cars? And lastly, are the shocks mounts prone to failing like most of the cars BMW made during this era?

[mitch808]

You can buy these: https://www.powerflexusa.com/shop/ca...2007-2013-1818

I have the Front Radius Arm To Chassis Bushing in street form. I can't tell the difference at all from the stockers it replaced.

[wcs531]

Here are my reasons:

1. The tension strut which has the most failure prone bushing also has a ball joint on the other end. The ball joint probably doesn't go bad very often but I didn't want to do the same job twice on the off chance it did.

2. Just new bushings requires a press - I would have more down time, have to drive to a shop, and have to pay them to press the bushings in. Im sure it wouldnt be too much but would also need a place thats open on the weekend when I have time to work on the car

[mitch808]

Not all bushings need a press. A ball joint tool can often do it. A torch can too. A hacksaw or similar can take care of the remaining metal sleeve.

Now if you're putting back in stock/OEM bushings, then yes most likely you need a press, as many of those are captive with a metal sleeve.

[wcs531]

Good point on aftermarket bushings not requiring a press. I probably should have researched poly bushings a little more but remember hearing about them getting noisy eventually.

How many years/miles have you had them? Have you had to re-grease them and if so do you have to remove and reinstall completely?

[mitch808]

Two things make all the difference in poly bushings.

Some brands have a cross hatch grooves within the inner race of the bushing. This provides a captive space for the grease to live and stay.

The brand/type of grease you use makes all the difference too. I absolutely love Energy Suspension Formula 5 grease for bushings. Lasts years with no reapplication. I've been using this stuff for more than a decade on multiple cars.

Depending on application, you can further augment this with a wrapping of plumbing teflon tape. Swaybar bushings are a good example of this. tape + grease is an unbeatable combo.