Diff Bushing Kits Question

[08H3]

This is a generic question, not about any one kit. I already have the OD kit because I was so impressed with the rack fix, but I haven't installed the diff bushings yet. My question (concern) about all the kits out there was about whether they are going to introduce flex into the axle assembly. A few years ago, I brought up the idea of solidly mounting the axle using a solid metal bushing. I was quickly shot down with the argument that any flex between the frame rails and/or crossmember would transfer the flex to the axle and lead to breakage. Made sense, so I never pursued it.

So, fast forward to the new kits with hard plastic bushings. Aren't we doing the same thing? Isn't this solidly mounting the axle and potentially causing flex, or is there something I'm not considering?

All that said, I'll probably install the kit anyway, because I don't think having it flop around on worn out bushings is good either, but I'd like to hear any input.

 

[06 H3]

I would disagree with statement "solid mounting is a bad idea" and would recommend the diff bushings. My beliefs are the fact that there is a 3 piece design on the axle. Each one of those pieces are moving on each mount. So if you have the snout bushing moving up and the side bushing twisting the opposite direction it will be causing more stress on the axle IMO. If you mount it solid the diff cant be moving in different directions. You want the diff to be doing the same thing.

 

[Best4x4]

I don't think a solid mount setup is a bad idea mechanically. I think it's more of a bad idea vibration wise. Pretty sure with an AWD setup it would send all kinds of vibrations thru the driveline to the chassis. The H40 diff bushing/crossmember offered to H40 members is very stout and I think if you catch yours soon enough before it destroys the upper mounts all you really need is a good reliable lower bushing.

When the unit on my Adventure fails I'll be going the same route. Quick shipping, easy install, and quick core charge refund. Not to mention that bushing is 100% stout than the OEM setup.

 

[SuperBuickGuy]

:corn:

this should be good (again).

 

[08H3]

:corn:

this should be good (again).

I'm sorry..."again"? I never recall a thread addressing this specific issue. If there is one, please point me to it.

 

[Chook]

Primary reason for the OEM rubber is NVH (secondary is alignment tolerance)

With perfect alignment, and no concern about NVH, a solid mount is ideal.

Anything between is a compromise. But all are better than a worn bush!!!!