What are suspension bushes?
Suspension bushes are crucial components in a car's suspension system. They act as cushions made of rubber, polyurethane, or other materials, providing a buffer between metal components. Their primary function is to absorb shocks from the road, reduce vibrations, and improve the ride quality of a vehicle.
Typically, suspension bushes are found at the joints of control arms, anti-roll bars, and other pivotal points in the suspension system. Over time, these bushes can wear out, leading to a reduction in handling performance and ride comfort. Symptoms of worn-out bushes might include knocking sounds, unstable steering, or a rough ride.
There are different types of suspension bushes available in the market:
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Rubber Bushes: These are the most commonly used type, offering good noise and vibration insulation but less durability. Rubber bushes degrade and weaken over a fairly short-space of time allowing undesired flex into the chassis. Regular maintenance and periodic checks are crucial to ensure that your suspension bushes are in optimal condition with safety being a priority.
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Nylon Bushes: Nylon is generally not recommended for suspension bushes. When a car's suspension moves, it follows an arc rather than a straightforward up-and-down motion. This requires a bush that can flex in multiple directions simultaneously. While metal, rubber, or Powerflex bushes accommodate this, nylon does not. It permits vertical movement but transfers all the arc forces directly to the arm and chassis. This added stress can lead to arm flexing and ultimately, early failure. Additionally, nylon doesn't absorb vibrations, exacerbating stress on the already strained arm.
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Polyurethane bushes: Offer improved performance over standard rubber bushes. They're generally easier to install and are an excellent option for drivers looking for a performance upgrade. However, not all polyurethane bushes are made equally!
Powerflex suspension bushes are made of high-grade polyurethane using advanced engineering processes. They offer improved performance over standard rubber bushes, without sacrificing in terms of comfort. They extend your tyre lifespan, boost vehicle performance, and enhance road safety. You can fit them and forget them because unlike rubber bushes, they won't wear out. With extensive expertise in automotive suspension and chassis engineering, EPTG Ltd (European Polyurethane Technologies Group) has utilised sophisticated polyurethane production methods to create a comprehensive line of high-performance car suspension mounts and bushes. These UK manufactured, top-quality polyurethane products are globally recognised under the brand name Powerflex.
Why do car manufacturers prefer rubber over Powerflex's polyurethane? It boils down to cost, supply, and manufacturing. Polyurethane is roughly ten times pricier than rubber and takes longer to process. Manufacturers aim for rubber bushes to last a few years without issues, prioritising marketability over long-term performance.