Complete Polyurethane Suspension Bushings for the X5?

[Lotus Man]

I'm looking for information on a complete set -- both front and back.

Who sells them and how much do they typically cost? Any insight as to the number of labor hours required for complete retrofit would also be appreciated.

Details: I'm looking for ones that have identical durameter as the OEM rubber ones. That way I don't compromise the ride, and can still take advantage of the polyurethane's longivity.

Thanks!

[vinuneuro]

Polyurethane reuquires more maintenance and does not last as long. You need to lube them periodically. The other thing is that they bind because of the nature of certain suspension components' movements.

Replacing every bushing front and rear will take several hours. Is there a certain bushing you need to replace?

[Lotus Man]

Not specifically, but I was told that one of my control arms is a little loose. So I figured I'd do the retrofit for the entire vehicle at the same time.

I was told that the advantage of poly-u is that it last virtually forever. I guess I'll have to check my sources. Rubber's durometer varies with temperature, and also disintegrates quicker with time. But poly-u doesn't seem to be as bad. It may wear, but will wear at a much slower place -- as demonstrated by its ability to be "machined" despite its soft nature and still hold up to the cutting, whereas rubber will just catch and rip to pieces if you try to turn one on a lathe.

I've heard about the excess use of lithium grease and/or other lubricants to maintain poly-u bushings. Especially the "guaranteed" massive sqeaking that's bound to take place if they're not periodically/properly lubed.

[bjo]

the only Poly bushing for the X5 is for the front control arm and is made by Powerflex. www.bimmerworld.com has them. I may try these later on. I've had good luck with their bushings on ym e36 m3 and e46 325i.