Hello All,
I know this may sound a bit crazy but I want to know what you guys think.

I recently replaced the front upper control arms and want to experiment with the old parts as opposed to throwing them out. The bushings were in pretty bad condition and the dust boot was totally gone on the upper ball joint. In addition, this BJ is loose and can be moved from side to side with little force. On the other hand, it does not have any "up and down" play.

I am in the process of having someone attempt to manufacture the bushings in a local shop. My issue is with the ball joint. I have seen indivuduals tap and install a grease zerk on sealed BJ's and inject grease. I would also try to find a suitable dust boot replacement.

Again, this is only an experiment, I am looking for alternate solutions for the rear upper control arms. What do you guys think, is this attempt a waste of time?

 

Would it not be cheaper to buy those bushings which are available?

 

My family member works at the shop so no need to spend $$.
Also, ive only come across one source for the rear bushings in the uk. I believe they are 45£ each plus shipping.

 

Well it's very strange the top control arms wore out?? The lower ones take all the weight and usually are the first to go. Had you already replaced the lower ball joints?
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What exactly are you trying to accomplish- repair the old front upper arm or modify the rear upper arms to prevent/reduce wear, or both

In any case, more power to you. Please let us know how you get along. Pics would be good too.

 

Yes, unfortunately the front upper bushings were very bad. I was also a little concerned because the boot on the upper ball joint was non-existent. The lower ball joints were replaced at the same time. This was a real PITA as the whole lower arm had to be purchased. I made a thread about the lower ball joints about two weeks ago.

 

My intent is to find an alternate solution to purchasing the rear upper arms by experimenting on the front upper arms. They are similar.

I will certainly post pictures of what develops. I am really hoping I can find an alternate solution to these issues.

 

One more thing:

Does anyone have first hand experience with "ball joint repair polymer injections?"

Wingate brake and steering centre

 

Update on Bushings:
Still researching the best materials to use, I am leaning towards Turcite, recommended by different people I spoke with. I am looking to order a material that does not need lubrication like Polyurethane.

 

I have a 2003 S Type 3.0 and I am replacing the front Struts. My question is do I have to unbolt the Upper Control Arm "A" arm bolt and/or the Stabilizer link below to swing the Strut assembly out. Or can I just unbolt the lower Strut Torx bolt and the 4 upper nuts and snake the Strut assembly out. Just don't want to do more work then I have to here.
Thanks for the help.

 

Have you had a look at the UK Jaguar forum?

They have a great bushing thread.

The definitive wishbone bush thread

There are 9 pages of discussion and updates. Very worthwhile information!

Discuss - The definitive wishbone bush thread
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