Polybush. Clywedog Road South. Wrexham.

I'm not going to come down on one side or the other. But have a watch of this video, not the most exciting, but puts some good point across


Mike

Skinny Mike.
Thanks' for the post. I've watched most of it, as you say, "not the most exciting". It relates to a Mazda MX 5, I used to have one and really liked it until I had to dodge a bit of flying debris on the M54. It was like riding a bucking bronco for a while. The video is not dated so I'm not sure how old the technology regarding the bushes is/was.
I got to the point where the commentator filled both bushes with grease and that did it for me. (I refer back to my previous post). Like you, I'm not supporting any view / side.
I've now chosen to try Polybush, paid for it and arranged the replacement. My FL1 has now got 78,000 on the clock. I suspect if I replaced the existing bushes with the plastic corks from wine bottles I'd feel a beneficial difference ( I'm being a bit hard here, my FL1 is both quiet and smooth).
When the work is done I'll report back in a considered way, given some reasonable time and mileage to make an opinion.

Colonial said:

Joe.
I've spoken to their tech staff to-day. They state that people are fitting these bushes using grease etc. That apparently is the big mistake. I asked about waxoyl, and again I was told a definite no-no.
They must be fitted dry to a cleaned area otherwise the grease and grit form an abrasive paste which then grips the bush and causes distortion. The only lubricant of any type must be soapy water or tyre soap, both of which dry out leaving a dry fit. As for your assertion that they only had one type in stock they showed me all three and explained the differences.

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That's interesting as the polybushes I fitted to my old MGF came with a little tube of grease with each set. I guess different manufacturers have different theories on the subject.

I think they are talking out of their rear ends Colonial mate. - waxoyl is perfect. Also, why would they have 3 types IN STOCK for the freelander ? - they may have '3 types' - but not for the freelander. That is why I said that that is why they 'recommended' type X
Marry in haste repent at leisure - . You will have a noisy and uncomfortable ride compared to normal (and perfectly suited) bushes, and they WILL wear out long before the original bushes. I am sorry to say that imho you have wasted your money - however it IS your money .
Most sellers are peddling the stuff to all and sundry. As for 'tech staff' this is often the counter guy who has sold most.................................
Definitely not a good choice for a freelander, however, I hope you are able to tolerate the downgraded ride quality / noise levels and short life that you will get.
Joe.

Joe_H said:

I think they are talking out of their rear ends Colonial mate. - waxoyl is perfect. Also, why would they have 3 types IN STOCK for the freelander ? - they may have '3 types' - but not for the freelander. That is why I said that that is why they 'recommended' type X
Marry in haste repent at leisure - . You will have a noisy and uncomfortable ride compared to normal (and perfectly suited) bushes, and they WILL wear out long before the original bushes. I am sorry to say that imho you have wasted your money - however it IS your money .
Most sellers are peddling the stuff to all and sundry. As for 'tech staff' this is often the counter guy who has sold most.................................
Definitely not a good choice for a freelander, however, I hope you are able to tolerate the downgraded ride quality / noise levels and short life that you will get.
Joe.

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Joe.
You are becoming a little difficult to follow in this thred. As I explained in a much earlier post, they stated there were three different types but only one of those was suitable for a Freelander, not all three! Therefore they did not offer the other two as options.
As I've said in our last post, they showed me all three held in stock, so it was not a case of 'this one is the last one on the shelf'.
I raised the point with - quote - "The Counter Staff", (who I have to say came over as decent and honest people, who I would quite happily employ in a business of my own).
I asked the necessary questions regarding whether to grease prior to fitting and was provided with a factual reply regarding the reason not to do it.
As I've said, I'm going into this open-minded. I'll report back in due course. That said, Joe, if you have previously used Polybush bushes on any of your own vehicles then I'd welcome your personal experiences.

Colonial said:

Joe.
You are becoming a little difficult to follow in this thred. As I explained in a much earlier post, they stated there were three different types but only one of those was suitable for a Freelander, not all three! Therefore they did not offer the other two as options.
As I've said in our last post, they showed me all three held in stock, so it was not a case of 'this one is the last one on the shelf'.
I raised the point with - quote - "The Counter Staff", (who I have to say came over as decent and honest people, who I would quite happily employ in a business of my own).
I asked the necessary questions regarding whether to grease prior to fitting and was provided with a factual reply regarding the reason not to do it.
As I've said, I'm going into this open-minded. I'll report back in due course. That said, Joe, if you have previously used Polybush bushes on any of your own vehicles then I'd welcome your personal experiences.

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As I said mate, they only had the freelander in one unit - not because it was 'best' simply because they didnt stock many as they dont sell well - of course they will sell you the 'one they have' - they may have shown 'all three' but NOT for the freelander - and also nothing to do with their recommendation.
Yes, I have used poly bushes on fast road cars and rally cars, and they are great !. short lived but great. ... I did not object to the increased noise or less comfortable ride as I wanted something with less suspension movement. - That is what you get. Less suspension movement, more noise transmission to the cab, a harsher non cushioned ride and greater wear.
The reply you were give - how can you say this is 'factual' - How can you judge the 'decency' and 'honesty' of people whose business is simply to get you to part with your hard earned cash. ?
I am sorry if I am telling you things you do not want to hear. fit standard aftermarket bushes and they will last another twenty years (especially if you spray them with waxoyl - which is the best thing on standard bushes as well as protecting the undersides) and is perfectly adequate on poly bushes. You could also consider the potential - and realistic issues of off road use where the use of poly or hard substance bushings all round actually can put a greater strain on all mounting points and even transmission.
It is really really not a good idea to fit these to a freelander for any use. The marketing for these things - in the class of 'bolt on goodies' is quite large - not the actual market necessity. The sales are mostly based on 'enticement' by sales literature and equally good salesmen - a good salesman shifts the products out of the door ! - a good salesman is also supposed to believe in the product - he may well do (slightly) - but certainly not for a freelander !!!

For a vehicle such as yours, and the reasons you say you want to fit them (or, as seems to be the case- have been mislead into fitting them) are simply not valid or appropriate to your stated needs. A good add on may well be an ITG performance air filter - a snorkel tube and brake cooling ducts. - well - err - actually not.. but I guarantee 100% that the aftermarket salesmen will also tell you that their airfilter will offer a noticeable performance boost and actually save you money due to less frequent changes - win win - bonus dude. Well, actually not... their are certain markets for certain 'bolt on goodies' that are appropriate ... mostly saxo drivers with rear facing baseball caps.
Anyone who says to me "I raised the point with - quote - "The Counter Staff", (who I have to say came over as decent and honest people, who I would quite happily employ in a business of my own)."
I would recommend you visit an estate agent or a money lending bank / building society - they are all of the same breed. - what they tell you is gospel.
Joe.

I fitted a complete set of yellow Polybushes from Paddocks. It cost me £50 at the time. They have been on there for about 6 years and are still fine. To begin with I found the ride on the hard side. In fact when driving down a dirt track I stopped as I thought I might have a flat tire . after a year or so they settled in. They have traversed rivers and streams, crossed the Sahara, and every winter driven in deep snow. When they wear out I will get another set.

mikescuba said:

I fitted a complete set of yellow Polybushes from Paddocks. It cost me £50 at the time. They have been on there for about 6 years and are still fine. To begin with I found the ride on the hard side. In fact when driving down a dirt track I stopped as I thought I might have a flat tire . after a year or so they settled in. They have traversed rivers and streams, crossed the Sahara, and every winter driven in deep snow. When they wear out I will get another set.

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Great value Mike - 50 squids is a bargain ! I would be fairly certain that you knew what you wanted and what you were buying, hence no worries.
Most things have a place for someone that knows what they want without a salesman or glossy advert telling them. They work for you and you knew what you were getting. Any sligh issues you have go used to - excellent !
Joe ;

Joe_H said:

As I said mate, they only had the freelander in one unit - not because it was 'best' simply because they didnt stock many as they dont sell well - of course they will sell you the 'one they have' - they may have shown 'all three' but NOT for the freelander - and also nothing to do with their recommendation.
Yes, I have used poly bushes on fast road cars and rally cars, and they are great !. short lived but great. ... I did not object to the increased noise or less comfortable ride as I wanted something with less suspension movement. - That is what you get. Less suspension movement, more noise transmission to the cab, a harsher non cushioned ride and greater wear.
The reply you were give - how can you say this is 'factual' - How can you judge the 'decency' and 'honesty' of people whose business is simply to get you to part with your hard earned cash. ?
I am sorry if I am telling you things you do not want to hear. fit standard aftermarket bushes and they will last another twenty years (especially if you spray them with waxoyl - which is the best thing on standard bushes as well as protecting the undersides) and is perfectly adequate on poly bushes. You could also consider the potential - and realistic issues of off road use where the use of poly or hard substance bushings all round actually can put a greater strain on all mounting points and even transmission.
It is really really not a good idea to fit these to a freelander for any use. The marketing for these things - in the class of 'bolt on goodies' is quite large - not the actual market necessity. The sales are mostly based on 'enticement' by sales literature and equally good salesmen - a good salesman shifts the products out of the door ! - a good salesman is also supposed to believe in the product - he may well do (slightly) - but certainly not for a freelander !!!

For a vehicle such as yours, and the reasons you say you want to fit them (or, as seems to be the case- have been mislead into fitting them) are simply not valid or appropriate to your stated needs. A good add on may well be an ITG performance air filter - a snorkel tube and brake cooling ducts. - well - err - actually not.. but I guarantee 100% that the aftermarket salesmen will also tell you that their airfilter will offer a noticeable performance boost and actually save you money due to less frequent changes - win win - bonus dude. Well, actually not... their are certain markets for certain 'bolt on goodies' that are appropriate ... mostly saxo drivers with rear facing baseball caps.
Anyone who says to me "I raised the point with - quote - "The Counter Staff", (who I have to say came over as decent and honest people, who I would quite happily employ in a business of my own)."
I would recommend you visit an estate agent or a money lending bank / building society - they are all of the same breed. - what they tell you is gospel.
Joe.

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Joe.
We're going to have to agree to differ on this subject I am listening to your points of view and appreciate them, if, in the distance of time you are proven correct, I will shout your praises (not sure about the snorkel tube though). Let me get these bushes fitted to my bog standard FL1 and report back. Therefore, I'm now going to go quit on this thread until I've got either positive or negative comments to make about my decision.

Colonial said:

Joe.
We're going to have to agree to differ on this subject I am listening to your points of view and appreciate them, if, in the distance of time you are proven correct, I will shout your praises (not sure about the snorkel tube though). Let me get these bushes fitted to my bog standard FL1 and report back. Therefore, I'm now going to go quit on this thread until I've got either positive or negative comments to make about my decision.

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Hi Mate, I fully accept that and intend no offence at all. I am just the way I am and too old in years to change ... I am sure I could be more diplomatic in answers my friend,
But yes certainly lets definitely agree to disagree, That is life ! - it would be a bloody boring and miserable place if we never did lol
I really hope they do what you want them to do and seriously ! - best wishes.

I am 60 next year. My FL1 will last longer in years (more than likely) than I have left. at the moment - body / structure / mechanically - it is as virtually as new. (mind you I live in Portugal and it IS a national car - no salt on the roads - no rust - at all.
I happily spend on it as it is - genuinely - expected to outlive me. In twenty years I am 100% convinced the FreeLander will be fine - I am 100% certain I will not be haha ...
I have a complete squirrelled away spares section including IRD, DIFF, ABS Modulator, Fuel pump complete, ECU, CCU, Wiring harness for engine bay and lots and lots of odds and sods. All new tyres fitted, all new brakes and over 4K euro spent since I bought it on a vast array of items from suspension to engine core plugs to heater transfer pipes to door locks and window mechanisms. - clutch, rear crank bearing, cam belts and fuel timing belt, all new brakes throughout and much much much more. I have absolutely no qualms with the expense - that is still a VERY cheap motor here for the money.
Best of luck and have fun- that is all that matters !.
No pockets in shrouds eh ?

Joe_H said:

Great value Mike - 50 squids is a bargain ! I would be fairly certain that you knew what you wanted and what you were buying, hence no worries.
Most things have a place for someone that knows what they want without a salesman or glossy advert telling them. They work for you and you knew what you were getting. Any sligh issues you have go used to - excellent !
Joe ;

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http://www.paddockspares.com/dc7002-britpart-yellow-polyurethane-bush-kit-freelander.html
Actually I didn't know what I wanted when I went for the Polybush set. What swayed me was from talking to people they said the Polybush were easier to fit. Apparently the rubber ones are a bit of a bugger. I ended up taking it to my Land Rover guy over here in France to fit them anyway. I also changed the front Axle for a heavy duty Salisbury axle a couple of year back and as the polybushes were still in good condition I used them again. Paddock do them for Freelander 1's. see above.
Good luck.

I've got britpart ones on my fl1. Really impressed with the handling. But not the wishbone creak. It seems to be getting less so I'll stick with them a bit longer. If not I'll be putting powerflex ones on

Diesel Do said:

I've got britpart ones on my fl1. Really impressed with the handling. But not the wishbone creak. It seems to be getting less so I'll stick with them a bit longer. If not I'll be putting powerflex ones on

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I'm happy with mine, No creak here but with the 18 inch wheels you do notice you have them fitted. In the video its a shame that guy does not know how to use a torque wrench and on the rear bushes it looks like he is using graphite grease.

I've been under the car for the last couple of days spraying WD40 in the relevant area's and then some. Thanks everyone for your input. I have appreciated all the points made and regard every post as a valuable contribution.
Job's booked in for next Monday (week today), I shall report back accordingly.

Colonial said:

I've been under the car for the last couple of days spraying WD40 in the relevant area's and then some. Thanks everyone for your input. I have appreciated all the points made and regard every post as a valuable contribution.
Job's booked in for next Monday (week today), I shall report back accordingly.

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Great, now you've dispersed the water perhaps you could use a penetrating oil

blue beasty said:

Great, now you've dispersed the water perhaps you could use a penetrating oil

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Bl00dy heck!.
Is this a whole new debate? What on Earth is wrong with WD 40?

Colonial said:

Bl00dy heck!.
Is this a whole new debate? What on Earth is wrong with WD 40?

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Nothing wrong with WD40 at all. It's an excellent Water Dispersant

As a penetrating lubricant it's a bit rubbish though

This WD40 is ok as a penetrating fluid.
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/...egoryId=255223&productId=939823&storeId=10001

Have we done? Joe_H, any further input?

Folk around here seem to recommend Plusgas. I don't know how much better it is than WD40 but you can get it from Eurocarparts.