I was told by the dealer that the rear bushings were wore and need to be replaced. They were more than happy to do it for $1,100.00. Is this a difficult project and does anyone no of a non-OEM replacement part number?

Thanks in advance.

Jamie

 

The usual failure is the 'A' Frame bushes (see RH arrowed in red):


(click on the image to enlarge it)

Not difficult but requires a press to remove the old ones and fit the replacements.

However, there's several more bushes in the rear suspension. You need to add more details.

Graham

 

I used aftermarket Powerflex bushes but they are more expensive than the OEM ones, however 80% to 90% of the cost will be labour.

 

I'm going to do this in a couple of weeks. Also the spring seat and upper shock mount at a minimum. Other suggestions welcome. I can hear a noise just behind the drivers seat on low speed bumps.

 

Graham,

Thank you for your detailed reply. The bushings that were recommended to be replaced by the dealer were in the rear suspension, not the front. I hope this is enough information to determine what bushings are needed and to determine if this can be a DIY project.

Thank you.

Jamie

 

Jamie, that is a picture of the rear. Taking things apart is the biggest part of most jobs and this is one of those. You can take the parts to a machine shop and have the old out and new bushing pressed in after you get the old parts in your hand.
Sounds simple enough but the bolts and nuts have been under the car in all kinds of conditions and having the body supported and the tools will be a large portion of the ease of this job.


Wayne

 

Thanks Wayne. I now see that is the rear of the car. The fortunate thing is that my neighbor has a four post lift, press and every tool known to man. With that said, can I get non-OEM replacement parts?

Jamie

 

Lucky you, and why not go with one of our sponsors here on the forum. SNG Barratt, which will give you 10% off if you mention you are a member here.
They will sent you a free catalog upon request.


Wayne

 

Wayne,

I found the paperwork from the dealership and they recommend "to replace both rear shock absorbers (Found control arm bushing(s) excessively worn/loose". Are the shock absorbers and the control arm bushings part of the same assembly that need to be replaced at the same time? Is this a typical repair for a 2002 XK8 with 30k miles? Let me know your thoughts as so I can check SNG for the parts.

Thanks,
Jamie

 

Jamie, It's not the mileage but the age of the rubber that is the problem. Some go with the poly replacement, as they last longer in a age related situation maybe not wear, I don't know about that.
The rear shocks may just need the bottom bushing and they are cheap enough and can be done on the car, a video is available for how to do that part. When they are dropped down it will give you the chance to check the bushing and the shock. The other bushing of course should be looked over, as the dealer might be a little more **** than you and me.


Wayne

 

Will Do. Thank you.

 

To push the 'A' frame bushes out needs a press; anyone got any idea of the force required? Ex: 1 ton, 10 ton etc.

 

Unsure about the actual removal force required, but I did not use a Press to change mine.
I used a 'Universal Bush Removal Kit' from ebay - see image of exact kit.
Very handy and I did all the Bushes on my X100 XKR. Cost me about £75 in UK but I see they are $149 in USA.