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The Benefits of Axle Bushings

Bushings are mechanical fixings used to dampen energy between two moving parts. They are in place to absorb the kinetic energy produced from the two parts. Walter Chrysler is credited as a leader in the adoption of rubber bushings and vibration-isolating mounts. Apparently it took many years of persuading Ford that the parts were necessary. Roads would be ten times as noisy without the noise dampening abilities of the rubber bushing.

There are many types of bushings available, one of which being the axle bushing. They often take on the form of an annular cylinder with a metal casting containing flexible material inside.These particular types of bushings can be found in both the rear and front of some vehicle suspension systems. The bushings allow for the system to move more smoothly and pivot without binding. The bushings can be made from various materials including polyurethane, aluminum and of course rubber. Better handling characteristics and straight-line acceleration speed can be attributed to quality axle bushings implanted on rear suspension.

When the bushings on are on the front of the suspension systems or are often of a straight-axle design. They are used to cushion the king pins for a tighter and more controllable steer axle. Those king pins secure the steering knuckles to the axle. This allows the front tires to pivot and steer the vehicle. If axle bushings are installed, the steering will be free of sticking and slop vibration. One downfall of rubber bushings is they are susceptible to fast deterioration in the presence of oils and extreme temperatures. Vehicles in those environments usually resort to bushings made from polyurethane.