About rear bushings - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Mrs_Lop · 06-30-2011, 08:18 PM

Greetings All,

I have a (new to me) 1997 Toyota Camry LE 4cyl 5SFE.
My mechanic told me that I needed Front Brakes& Rotors, and Bushings for the rear ( to stop the creaking. )

I have already decided on the Brakes & Rotors to buy for him to install.

I don't know anything about Bushings.

If anyone knows about the types I would need to get, where to get them and how much it would cost, it would be much appreciated.

Blessings,
Mrs_Lop

96ToyoCam164K · 06-30-2011, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mrs_Lop

Greetings All,

I have a (new to me) 1997 Toyota Camry LE 4cyl 5SFE.
My mechanic told me that I needed Front Brakes& Rotors, and Bushings for the rear ( to stop the creaking. )

I have already decided on the Brakes & Rotors to buy for him to install.

I don't know anything about Bushings.

If anyone knows about the types I would need to get, where to get them and how much it would cost, it would be much appreciated.

Blessings,
Mrs_Lop

I'd be careful about buying parts to take to them. I mean, even though I prefer to do that sometimes...some mechanics can act funny when the customer buys the part. Because if it fails, or doesn't fit...then you have to pay labor twice.

If you so insist, ask the auto parts store for bushings. Just don't buy cheap Valucraft crap. Buy the medium to top grade brakes.

capnblinski · 06-30-2011, 10:27 PM

Hi Mrs_Lop –

I have some input on your rear sway bar bushings - when worn (meaning lost their firm/rubbery resistance, these Camry's drive like a %#!#!@* crate on wheels. But – when the bushings are replaced properly, a simple inexpensive job, the difference in the car's 'drivability' is amazing.

A common replacement item at that age on these Camry’s.

~Peace

Mrs_Lop · 07-01-2011, 11:29 AM

96ToyoCam164K,

It's the BUSHINGS that I need help with. I tried looking on line but if I don't know anything about it to begin with, I have to ask questions first. They have different materials that are in use. Which ones to buy -I just don't know.

The brakes & rotors are already decided on. I did a lot of research on them.

Thanks for your advice. My mechanic guarantees all the work done at his shop.
I just have to make sure that I buy good quality parts.

Blessings,
Mrs_Lop

Mrs_Lop · 07-01-2011, 11:34 AM

capnblinski,

It does cause some problems, that's why it's a safety issue, as well. It's hard to maintain control when I'm steering, at times. Rhode Island has every kind of pot hole and dip and hill known to man. We have some of the worst streets to drive on.

I take it easy and try to stay off the roads during peak driving times. It will be interesting to see what happens over this holiday weekend - when everyone is out there on the streets and highways.

Thanks for your observations.
Blessings,
Mrs_Lop

Chris Crash · 07-01-2011, 01:39 PM

For bushings I would go with Moog, Raybestos, or similar brand. Both brands can be found on Rockauto's website for about 8-10 dollars for both bushings. I'm sure many auto parts stores carry these brands (Carquest does-I know that for a fact). I also know Advance Auto sells Energy Suspension bushings, which are always recommended when members upgrade their suspension as they are polyurethane instead of rubber. I don't remember the price for them, but I think you would be fine with rubber bushings like Moog or Raybestos brand.

The only problem you will run into is what size your rear sway bar is. It will be either 16mm or 17mm thick. Obviously, the different size produces different bushings. Maybe another member can chime in and help figure out which you have (I have a feeling the only difference is where the car was made - Kentucky or Japan)

Mrs_Lop · 07-01-2011, 02:30 PM

Chris Crash,
My car was made in Kentucky.

I googled "How to find out what your VIN numbers mean"...VIN Numbers Decoded. It took a few minutes, but at least I knew. Toyota has a lot of check digits in their number and letter scheme. Some are only internal use only.

Thanks, I will post when I've checked it out. I would like a smoother ride - I deserve it after putting up with a 1987 Toyota Corolla DX until 200?. It didn't owe me anything. It was easy to work on. It got me anywhere I wanted to go, but the road noise and bumpy ride I do not miss.

Thanks again for addressing my issue exactly as needed.

Blessings,
Mrs_Lop

capnblinski · 07-01-2011, 10:17 PM

I don't the proper size either with a '97 5sfe either - but on the '00 that's next on the needs done list. Mostly that's where that thunk from the trunk comes from. Really without everything shipshape back there it feels as if the car's back end is dragging around with u. lol. A major improvement in drivability/safety in the camry with the sway bar (runs between right and left wheel) bushings replaced. My bushings are just at the replacement point, but oddly rain/humidity in the air swells the rubber just enough to let me zoom around up and down and all over the place with confidence... kinda likes getting on the throttle now and zen...

- Good luck to both of us -