Polyurethane Upper Control Arm Bushings
I went through a few sets of the regular
machined 750il bushings and finally got tired of installing
bushings every six months. I ponied up for the steeply priced
polyurethane bushings from BMP. I don't feel any difference in
performance, however that have lasted twice as long as the 750il
bushings and still show no signs of deterioration. Due to the
high price, I can recommend these pieces only if you find yourself
changing the 750il bushings often. (Once a year or sooner) The
bushings were marked with "Eurothane 106" I think. Does
anyone have an alternative source for these bushings?
There are some installation and removal pictures
below.
A polyurethane bushing next to a stock
E28 piece.
Poly bushing installed in a control
arm.
I'm removing the stock bushing from
a new control am using a 25 ton hydraulic press and a large socket
for a mandrel. Mandrel size is important. Too small and you just
push the rubber out of the shell. Too large and it will not pass
through the control arm.
Another angle. You can install bushings
the same way.
In this picture, I'm using a factory-style
tool to press the poly bushing into the control arm. The tool
comes with a threaded rod a couple of mandrels. I think the extra
mandrels work on E30 front control arm bushings.
Ed