Powerflex Bushing Install DIY

[Roadkill]

I am going to replace both upper and lower control arm bushings. Are there any shortcuts or is this retrofit fairly straight forward? TIA.

[m5james]

You're a select VERY few who have installed PF's in an X5. To be honest, I'd suggest trying www.e38.org for suspension installation tips on installing bushings into arms. The torque specs will obviously be different for the X though. Try PM'ing X5 girl so she'll throw some information on this thread, or reply on one of her PF threads.

[Roadkill]

james,

i've done a PF bushing install in my 540 and it went fairly easy. this is my first X and haven't really done any poking around underneath. do you suggest staying with OEM bushings? or is there any other brand that works better? thanks.

[m5james]

I remember you, very nice Touring...I always thought they'd be a fun sleeper From what I've read here, there are actually less problems using them in the X versus what people have experienced on the 5/7 forums, between either the whole purple/black bushing experiences to use or not use the metal washers. I even remember reading M5 threads where they used the X bushings because they're stronger/beefier than the stock 5/7 bushings.

So far it seems X5girl is the only person who's installed PF's who is also a member of these forums, and she's said nothing but good things about them. NSCUNascar has a set coming in the mail as well. My suspension is still in great shape, so I haven't crossed this road in the X yet.

[dpgx5]

Hey Guys,

I've had these installed since last summer and went fairly easy. Be patien with the arm where it is attached to the ball joint. Removing the old bush is not the problem, getting the new ones in is tricky! As it has some movement when you try to push them through, you have to really support one end from sliding.

I can tell that it has improved, better feel etc. but I also have done allot to my susp. so basically its all tied in together!

[Roadkill]

Originally Posted by m5james

I remember you, very nice Touring...I always thought they'd be a fun sleeper From what I've read here, there are actually less problems using them in the X versus what people have experienced on the 5/7 forums, between either the whole purple/black bushing experiences to use or not use the metal washers. I even remember reading M5 threads where they used the X bushings because they're stronger/beefier than the stock 5/7 bushings.

So far it seems X5girl is the only person who's installed PF's who is also a member of these forums, and she's said nothing but good things about them. NSCUNascar has a set coming in the mail as well. My suspension is still in great shape, so I haven't crossed this road in the X yet.

james,

thanks again for the info. i'll do a little more homework before i commit but it sounds like PF is a good alternative to stock.

[CharlieHustleX5]

I did the Powerflex Bushing replacement on the tension strut and it was pretty straightforward. I've heard of some having the bushing fail on them for unknown reasons, which has made me pay a bit more attention to them. Nothing so far, but if they fail i'll be looking to get a set of Meyle HD bushings.

[m5james]

I take everyone opinion w/ a grain of salt, so having said that....ive "heard" people mention that using poly bushing for normal driving will wear out just as quickly as rubber since normal roads are much rougher than say a track. As long as the poly doesn't squeek (lube liberally) and I'm still going to have to replace them on the same intervals as the rubber versions, I'd rather have the firmer ride. My X is already pretty stiff as is, and as far as I know, its still all stock pieces @ 97k.

[CharlieHustleX5]

Everyones opinion differs mainly due to difference in road conditions, driving style, and mileage driven. So no one person will be absolutely right or wrong. Honestly, next time around I will try the HD meyle pieces. That, or fill my busted ones with urethane and see how they last.

[wallyx5]

I put a set on my X and I like them. They feel great and I didn't notice any road vibration added to the steering wheel.