Rubber or Poly bushings?

[swtjames23]

So I'm gonna be all up in the suspension of my truck soon and I'd like to replace all the bushings while I'm in there. I've been reading a couple different threads about Poly vs. Rubber but haven't come to a conclusion. Some say rubber flexes better but I noticed in one thread that 4x4Junkie went with poly..

So, Junkie, I know you like a flexy suspension so why did you go with poly?
And anybody else with info, please share.

Thanks

 

[94xlt4.0]

it is true that rubber flexes better, but it is also less resistant to deteriorating. rubber will crack and split long before poly will but it will still take a while depending on your climate. poly will give a firmer feel, thats why racers use poly to help with handling. if your suspension is set up right though then the difference in flex probably wont be noticeable

 

[4x4junkie]

I went with poly simply for it's longevity.
Unless you're running the stock stubby radius arms, you're not likely to see a whole lot of difference in flex or travel with rubber vs poly bushings.

 

[4.0B2]

use poly for that.. just for the longevity.

on certain things i prefer rubber. but not on stock ra's.
i have poly bushings in my sway bar stuff now. don't notice a difference in that.

 

[swtjames23]

Alright.. Poly it is then. Thanks for the input guys

 

[legoms013]

I have poly. I can flex all day long and doubt if I had rubber ones I could "flex better". Seem fine to me.

Two words of caution though.

Don't ever get mineral based greases or lubricants on them if you can help it, it causes them to get real noisy.

And when you put it all back together, don't torque the radius arm nut all the way until you put the full weight back on the beam. Just snug the nut, then let the suspension back down on the weight of your vehicle.

If you do the bushing will be under a bunch of stress and will be extremely noisy until you back the nut off a hair.

Its the same concept as not cinching down the a leaf spring bolts down on their bushings until there is weight on it, as the bushing can tear if you do.

 

[swtjames23]

Will do. Thanks for the advice

 

[ronclark]

I replaced all the rubber in the front axle for poly. I loved the way it tightened up my front end. no squeaks or rough ride.
If i had to do it over again i would go poly.