Should the yellow rubber spring seat in a top mount be fitted dry or with a lubricant? If so, which lubricant?

 

I don’t think there was any lubricant on mine when I replaced the dampers.

 

Nothing about lubricant in the workshop manual. Also, we don’t expect the spring to rub the seat, but sit securely against it. Adding lubricant makes no sense to me.

 

Neville, are you trying to create ANOTHER interminable squeak you can't find?

 

No!!! Not at all, but that is what has happened.
i fitted a new top mount recently in an attempt to cure a squeak, and stupidly created one by lightly smearing the rubber part with rubber grease which went all gooey and sticky causing a horrid creaking sound.
I think It should have been fitted dry - just checking with people that know.
I live and learn.

 

Lol, I went through a similar process. When the squeaks first occurred , I had sprayed lube up there as well. Solved the issue for about a month. Then I said “the hell with it” and changed all 4 corners.
You know, for a 14 year old car, she amazes me at how well built and structurally sound she is…. just keep up with the maintenance. Of course due to age, the maintenance items now exceed what was originally planned. Case in point…

 

Took the top mount out today, gave it a good clean and refitted it dry. No creak so far!
Also fitted four new rubber bobbin mounts to one of the engine oil coolers as two were broken. 62 bolts had to come out for access!