Bad bushings?

[myotis1134]

Been nibbling away at this rear suspension overhaul for a few months now, and the latest issue I've run into is the polyurethane bushings that came with the tubular rear tension strut bars from ShoSource.
Before going any further, I want to make it clear that I am extremely pleased with my rear suspension products from ShoSource. The adjustable rear control arms are gorgeous, and the tension bar is definitely an improvement on the OEM. Love ya Mike - for everything you do for us here.

In the pictures below, you will see the poly bushings bulge alarmingly, and this is only at 15 ft-lbs. The shop manual says to torque up to 50 ft-lbs, and AllDataDIY confirms this value.







I'm not certain what's going on. I'm using an expensive torque wrench because I take torque seriously, and it claims there is 15 lbs on these bushings when i took these pics. Are the washers too small, or do they need to be cupped?
I have some TPS bushings I can use if the polys don't work out, but I don't get it. I have Energy Suspension poly bushings on the front, and they didn't deform like these ones do.
Help please.

 

[luigisho]

Before install are the washers the same or larger than the bushing contact area? If not I would add some that did or if you can find correct size cupped is great. I've never seen this much deform on that bushing but it has been a long time since I even specifically looked closely at one on the car. You may also need another set of bushings that are stiffer.

 

[myotis1134]

Before install, washers are approximately the same diameter as the ass-end of the bushing. I'm going to replace with the TPR (not TPS), until I can source some cupped washers, since the garage I'm parked in is about to be sold out from under me.

 

[Irish Pride]

I don't like Polyurethane. I always go with the Thermoplastic option.

-Chad

 

[myotis1134]

TPR worked out.