Front wishbone bush - anyone tried fitting a ball bearing?

[Smokeyandcora]

Just wondered if anyone has thought of fitting a bearing race into the bearing housing instead of the powerflex solution which seems a ripoff at 60 quid a side...?

[T-Cut]

The problem is keeping out the elements. The original Minis had sealed needle bearings on the rear radius arms and they always succumbed to water/rust, even though they were serviced with a grease nipple. I honestly doubt a DIY design would last very long. There's also a train of thought that the rubber bush system provides the correct amount of driving refinement that the Powerflex system lacks.

TC

[paul d]

Originally Posted by T-Cut

The problem is keeping out the elements. The original Minis had sealed needle bearings on the rear radius arms and they always succumbed to water/rust, even though they were serviced with a grease nipple. I honestly doubt a DIY design would last very long. There's also a train of thought that the rubber bush system provides the correct amount of driving refinement that the Powerflex system lacks.

TC

I fitted the Powerflex bushes to both sides of my 75 & didn't notice any difference in the ride or handling over 2+ years.

But I do agree that a DIY of needle/ball bearing wouldn't last long.

Regards

Paul

[Smokeyandcora]

Originally Posted by T-Cut

The problem is keeping out the elements. The original Minis had sealed needle bearings on the rear radius arms and they always succumbed to water/rust, even though they were serviced with a grease nipple. I honestly doubt a DIY design would last very long. There's also a train of thought that the rubber bush system provides the correct amount of driving refinement that the Powerflex system lacks.

TC

Thanks guys - will fit the powerflex solution then !