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I've seen other questions/answers on this topic on this forum, but I haven't seen any specific to my inquiry. I might have changed the bushings many years ago, but I don't remember. Being the original owner I've replaced many parts over the years.
The fit of the camber bolt and the shock support in the bushings is loose enough to allow some "wobble" within the bushings. I recently had the diff rebuilt and I'm in the process or reinstalling everything. I didn't have any unusual driving/riding characteristics, but an alignment shop pointed out excessive movement in one of the side yokes and said a satisfactory rear alignment wasn't possible. Thus the rebuild...
Judging from the measures I'm posting, and the attached photo, do the bushings need to be replaced? There doesn't appear to be excessive wear inside the bushings or on the camber bolt or shock support. For the record, I'm trying to keep the car "mostly" original and I'm not interested in adjustable strut rods.
Shock end of the rod: bushing ID = 0.655 OD = 1.186 Shock support diameter = 0.617
Camber bolt end: bushing ID = 0.648 OD = 1,178 Camber bolt diameter = 0.496 (caps are present and in good condition)
Similar measurements and appearance on both strut rods.
I was aware of the different sizes and it appears that mine are the correct OD. However, I still wonder why the bushing holes are so large as to allow some "wobble" with the shock support and camber bolt. Other than providing the dimensions as above, I can't quantify "wobble."
It appears as though there is no local source for new bushings to compare with mine, I might take all the pieces and parts to the alignment shop to see if they can provide an "informed" opinion.
According to the NCRS judging manual there might be a deduct for non-original type bushings. Many replacement bushings have a metal sleeve to assist in installation. No sleeves with originals. Although I'm trying to keep the car as original as possible, I don't plan to have it judged. If the alignment shop believes the bushings should be replaced, I'll go with the sleeved version (rubber)..
The tech at the alignment didn't see any issues with my parts. All should be good when torqued. I guess I'll find out when I get everything back together and back to the alignment shop in a couple of weeks.
Heim-jointed strut rods will bolt on, improve your handling,and keep your camber adjustment. If you aren't having the car judged, why not make it the best Corvette it can be?
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69 Strut Rod Bushings
