I'm going to replacing the A arm bushings shortly and have decided on the Energy Suspension bushings as they don't require welding. In looking at their catalog they list a 13.3101G or R with thrust washer and a 13.3101G or R which doesn't mention a thrust washer. Anybody know the difference? In all the pictures I can fine the two part numbers look identical. Thanks Barry
I cross-checked parts numbers (OEM 111616), and I believe this is the correct one: https://teamenergysuspension.com/product/energy-suspension-13-3101g-control-arm-w-thrust-washer/ So 13.3101, not 13.3102. FWIW - I've installed these on my front A-arms (haven't gotten around to the back ones yet). The ride is absolutely stiffer. Also, noisier, bumpier and harsher. So... yeah, taking corners is a bit more spirited, but you'll pay for it in other ways. I could have welded regulars in there myself when I did the R&R; occasionally I still debate if it was the right decision. It's not so bad that I'm taking them off again, but you get my overall point I think. BTW - you might have some spacers on your originals, that are NOT welded. You'll need to pay close attention to where they go - take pictures. And most importantly, you might find that not all of them will be used with the ES bushings. You'll know what's up if you go to mount the A-arm and discover it's not lining up with the mounts properly.
If it is just the issue of welding that is pushing you toward the polys, the welding is as simple as it gets. An option for using rubber bushings is taking the prepared A-arms to a muffler shop and have them zap in the spot welds. It would be hard for them to mess it up because the burn marks from the prior welds will guide them. It would be much less than an hour’s labor for them. For what its worth, I had a nice chat with Superformance when I was shopping for bushings. They were very proud of their bushings which have firmer rubber than stock.
Thanks Guys I was mainly wondering what the difference was between "with and without thrust washer". Based on some ride harshness and noise I will consider using OEM type. Barry
I wouldn't mind that too much 20 years ago but not now. I just pulled all the ******** I did to my Alfa when I was 26 off. Bought STOCK springs and STOCK shocks.
Yeah. Looking seriously at the Superformance kits. I did find out the difference between the energy suspension 13.3101 and 13.3102 bushings. The 101 is 30mm in dia while the 102 is 34mm. When I cross reference the "replaces" part number it looks like the 30 mm is for 308s while the 34mm is for 348s. Barry
Worth checking our old friend first! I think his prices have gone down further. https://www.ebay.com/str/maseratisource/FERRARI-308-328-AND-400i-PARTS/_i.html?_storecat=20993363
Yup his prices look great. Quick question on pressing out the old bushings after grinding the welds. I have a 12 ton press is that enough? I read on one of the threads it took a 30 ton press! I assume I won't have any trouble using my flux welder to tack the new bushings in place?
I can't imagine it wouldn't be enough. A standard arbor press - good luck, but a 12 ton hydraulic? Should work fine. Just be absolutely sure you get the angle right, with proper support. The a-arm WILL deform if you don't do it right. Thought I've spent some time training mig/tig on a Miller, I am NOT a welding expert. So take that into account with my answer, which is - a basic mig tack is going to suffice. Just prep the a-arm nicely to get a good weld.
+1. The important thing is supporting the A-arm around the bushing as you press it out. I bought iron pipe unions from Home Depot that were slightly larger diameter than the outside of the bushing. I had to grind a slot on one side to fit into one of the bushings. I used a bench vice as a press so doubt I got to 12 tons of weight.
