Rear radius arms fitment

[Simon]

Just fitted one of my rear radius arms with a polybush and noticed that when the bolt was re-fitted through the s/s sleeve it's not a perfect fit. Only a miniscule amount, but it means I can move the other end of the radius arm about 10mm or so side to side. Is this an issue or is the sole purpose of the radius arm to hold the rear suspension the up-down plane?

Simon

 

[Ian Clark]

Hi Simon, a pictures worth a thousand words, can you show us what you mean, thanks

 

[Phil]

Simon:
As Ian said some photos might tell all.
If your location of the radius rods is not parallel to the chassis (which is most likely the case), then any forward or rearward forces on the upright will make the bushed end slide side to side in the mounts. I think you are making reference to the two radius rods on each side and not the transverse link. That being said there should be minimal or no play between the ears of the mount. You would need a washer or spacer on the bushes to take up that play without binding them.
Cheers
Phil

 

[Simon]

The bush and sleeve are a good fit in the end but the bolt, while being a good fit in the bracket, is very slightly loose in the sleeve inside the bush. Thuds is what translates to the movement at the other end of the radius arm
Simon

 

[Phil]

Simon:
The bushes should fit tight in the rod, and the sleeve should be clamped tightly between the ears. Ideally the ID of the bushing should rotate on the stationary sleeve with no side to side movement. The problem with the bushings is they must be tight to work and that means friction. Have you thought about using rod ends? They can be mounted solidly with almost no friction and will rotate in more than one axis.
Hope that helps
Cheers
Phil