I've just received a full set of suspension mounts from Baxtor and started dismantling the front suspension today. The Upper Wishbone bushes aren't in great shape so I might as well replace them whilst I'm at it. I've read lots of feedback on the various options but does anyone have recent feedback? I'm looking at the SNG Barret site and they give three options:

• Jaguar OEM - about £220 for the full set
• Aftermarket set - about £70 and these seem to be about the prices that other Jag specialists sell at for aftermarket
• "Uprated" Polybush - about the same as the OEMs

I want original ride - I'm more of a cruiser than a track warrior - and would rather pay £70 than £220.

Does anyone have any strong recommendation? Any reason I shouldn't go with the £70 option?

CHeers

 

How easy did the fulcrum pin come out? Do you want to do the job again in another 25 years time or in a few years?

Answer those questions and you have your answer.

 

They came out surprisingly easily. One of the inner shims on one side grabbed the fulcrum pin but that was easily fixed when I identified which one. The bushes themselves just fell out.

Nevertheless, it’s not something I want to do regularly. I’m guessing that kicks out the cheap aftermarket stuff so OEM or Poly? AI tells me that the a combination of OEM lower bushes (which are in good shape) and Poly upper bushes are a good combination but that might just be based on a single review so not reliable.

What’s your advice? I’m only replacing the upper wishbone bushes.

To your longevity point, the bushes appear to have been replaced only three years ago..

 

I've done this job twice - the second time I used Baxtor's mounts and OEM bushings. The first time I used non-OEM for both and they simply didn't last very long (less than 5 years). Both times the fulcrum pins were a PITA to get out, hence why I thought I'll see if I can fit parts that will last this time. How long it will last is another question. Like you I like a soft ride, so I avoided the poly type bushes.

In the scheme of things 70 versus 220 is not that much difference over the number of years you hope it will last and well worth it if you can avoid having to do the job again, or at least prolong the inevitable.

 

Using poly bushes on the front upper wishbone should not make the ride harder - they handle the pivoting action rather than ‘up and down’ movement. My Jag specialist recommends using poly bushes for this for longevity but not for the rest of the front suspension where more flexibility seems beneficial