I'm totally replacing all ball joints and bushings but wasn't considering the strut rod bushings. Should I replace those as well while I'm at it? Do they effect handling much since they attach to the lower control arm?

Thanks

YES. Get the MOOG improved type bushings. You will kick yourself hard if you don't and they go bad in a year or two (likely). You have to pull T-bars back and usually upper or lower balljoints to get the SRs out.

Lou

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Home of Slant6-powered fun machines since 1988

Rule of thumb:

If it's got the pentastar symbol on it, the strut-rod bushings need replacing whether you know it or not

D/W

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If it ain't broke, fix it!

Is there 2 bushings per strut or just the big one in the front?

Thanks

The bushing set goes in front of and behind the K-frame so you need to pull the rod completely back out of the K. The MOOG kit does both sides complete.

Lou

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Home of Slant6-powered fun machines since 1988

So there is no bushing in the LCA?

Yes, there is another rubber bushing hidden deep inside the lower control arm. I got some from JC Whitney a few years ago for $5 each back then.

The strut rod does not ride in a bushing in the LCA, it is nutted down solid on a tapered section. The LCA does have its own bushing at its K frame mount point.

Lou

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Home of Slant6-powered fun machines since 1988

re: do they affect handling that much?
YES
They are keeping the LCA in position (fore/aft) and carrying the braking load.
As a test, while you have the strut disconnected, tug the LCA backwards and see how far it goes, then imagine the load it sees under braking/cornering!

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