Re: Delco 1966 lever-action shock problem

Posted by flackmaster On 2009/12/3 10:25:50

I have no basis for commenting on the quality of the Steele 338830 bushing other than to say I know other folks whose same bushings seem to wear "prematurely". Hearsay.
I will comment that the earlier style INLOX bushing used in the 35-38 cars hardly ever seems to wear out. My armchair analysis of the design also suggest a slightly stiffer ride, yet not as stiff as a urethane bushing might provide. I think the reason Packard went to the 338830 style was the ease of assembly/replacement. Gotta keep the service bays busy, and the INLOX style requires a press to get it in/out, which meant more labor, etc.
One other armchair comment that the cracking seen is in the exposed "squished" area, which doesn't surprise me having a very limited understanding of how rubber reacts to pressure. On the other hand, have you disassembled and evaluated the performance of the rubber along the axis of the bolt? Final comment, check the washer at the center of the squeeze bolt at the pinch of the shock arm and make sure that has not perished, my recollection is originally these were a reinforced material, kinda like a body mount, and if simply replaced with a soft rubber might also contribute to upper/outer problems.

Finally, just my opinion, I think there would be a market for a better bushing, as these 39-41 cars tend to ride very soft...