mod a late b body upper control arm

[Monaco Man 78]

i got an extra set of upper control for my 78 monaco, im putting in energy suspension polyurethane, upper and lower control arm bushings, i was going to go with a pst set but, i already have the energy suspension, i have a black 5.3121G set wondering if there're poly graphite unsure, anybody have some info.

for the upper control arms, since i've been hearing poly components squeak if not properly greased, i want to install grease (zerk) fittings for my upper bushings, my control arm has a shaft in between it and the bushings all 73-79 B & C bodies have this shaft that i know of, has anybody modified the upper stock control arm with grease fittings, how would i go about it, any pics info would help

[Rich Kinsley]

I don't remember which way it goes right off. Black is with graphite and red is without? I have the polygraphite on mine without any zerts and it does not squeak.

[Monaco Man 78]

so your saying you have an energy suspension control arm bushings? what body style did ya put it on?

[John Kunkel]

To my knowledge, Energy Suspension doesn't offer polygraphite, only polyurethane.

[dodger1]

I have an Energy Susp. kit 5.3114G for F-J-M bodies (transverse bar cars) The packaging describes the bushings as "urethane" The existing (OEM) metal shells must be re-used. The material is black, with no mention of poly-graphite. There is a small envelope of lubricant that looks like Vaseline. I'm about to install the kit in my Mirada, and I'd also appreciate any info on Zerk fittings, as well as how one recovers the metal shells for re-use.

[Monaco Man 78]

if there free floating bushings, say you drill and tap a zerk, wouldnt the bottom of the fitting eat into the bushing, maybe drill/tap thru the control arm and shell for clearance?

dodger1 do the energy squeak non stop like people say or is it proper installation that ensures quietness?

[dodger1]

Originally Posted by Monaco Man 78

dodger1 do the energy squeak non stop like people say or is it proper installation that ensures quietness?

I'll tell you after I install them

[71solo2challenger]

I installed Firm Feel Tubular UCAs with their poly bushings and had nary a squeak. If you're that concerned, take the cross shafts, drill a hold down the center of each end, and then do a cross hole where the bushings are. Zerk fitting both ends and call it a day. I wouldn't drill and tap the thin metal that's the UCAs.

[Monaco Man 78]

thanks, i was thinking that but unsure, the poly inner sleeve is closed off unlike the stock rubber sleeve that has a slit al the way down, will i get adequate grease to the bushing or will it stop up in the sleeve and push out the sides, it would seem the bushing wouldnt get enough grease, maybe drill 2holes on the inner sleeve, so the grease would radius around the inner bushing

[duster_066]

I've used PST poly-graphite bushings on 2 builds. They did squeak during cold weather. I like em and will use them again.