Polyurethane bushes

Details

Written by Stephen Tickell

Update November 2021 - the original page with cross-reference to Superflex bushes has gone, so here is the list

Unfortunately the Superflex website doesn't list these - they have a Magnette page but it only shows 'Panhard Rod bushes'. The bushes are sometimes available on ebay (often listed as SuperPro) but if anyone has managed to find a distributor with stock recently please contact us

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Several owners have installed polyurethane bushes to replace some or all of the rubber bushes fitted to the suspension. This is generally done for the following reasons:

• Longer service life of the bush
• More precise location of moving parts
• Less distortion under load

Service life is a particular issue for classic car owners, because remanufactured rubber parts (if available) are often found to degrade within 2-3 years of fitting, even with very limited mileage. Polyurethane bushes only deteriorate through wear, so the average Magnette owner can expect many years of service. There are some disadvantages however:

• Firmer ride and increased transmission of road noise
• Harder to fit
• Metal surfaces which the bush rotates against must be in good condition

The issue of ride comfort can be avoided by choosing the correct grade of poly bushes, such as Superflex 'purple' type, rather than the much harder yellow or red variety that might be used for racing applications. A list of suitable Superflex parts can be found here

These parts are available as a kit from Doug Smith at MG Motorsport, who still stocks them (as at July 2010 he is Superflex's main supplier for MGs). He supplied SPF0960 as an alternative front inner fulcrum bush and front bottom trunnion bush instead of SPF0805, to improve location of the radius arm under braking.