Problem installing al subframe bushings

[haydenm315]

I finally decided to do it and of course I run into issues. The washer have lips that are supposed to fit into the stock bushings. The aluminum units don't allow for the lip to fit inside. What shall I do?

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Throw the washers away, you don't really need 'em. Some people have gone through the hassle of grinding off the lip, but it's really not necessary to use the washers.

 

[haydenm315]

Throw the washers away, you don't really need 'em. Some people have gone through the hassle of grinding off the lip, but it's really not necessary to use the washers.

I went to shopheonixproject and used their install since shotimes was down for some reason. I was a bit confused as they showed pictures with/without the washer installed. I saw pictures where dealerships installed the washers wrong on here and people were laughing. I ended up doing the same thing for now. I went around the block and everything feels good. Should I remove those things immediately or is it safe to say they won't hurt anything?

 

[Ishodu]

Don't leave the washers on backward. The bolt won't be supported very well at all. Just remove them now. One at a time with the sub frame supported.

 

[shojuan]

When I installed mine the washer lips fit (shonut bushings). When I installed shotimer's I ground off the washer lips with my dremel because they did not fit (netviper bushings).

I agree. Washers backwards is much, much worse than no washer at all.

Personally, I would feel funny not having the washers there. But I respect Chris' opinion on this. If you don't care to use the washers it has been done without complaint.

Another option is to buy big flat washers and use those instead. That's another route some folks have taken.

 

[wood_e]

I guess I'm a bit responsible for that article... I forgot to mention that I discarded the washers in favor for what people were mostly doing, and leaving them off.

 

[haydenm315]

ugh..... might as well do it right.

 

[Ishodu]

If you feel that you really need to use washers just go to your hardware store and get 4 1/2" or 5/8" washers and use them.

 

[haydenm315]

I quickly fixed the washer issue yesterday and am enjoying the handling improvement. I didn't expect such a drastic improvement. My car feels a lot more together now. It turns a lot better and the shift feel is also improved. I haven't noticed any drawbacks yet. I did notice that my tie rod ends are on their way out. They're the source of the creaking I've been hearing.