Jim Grant's Tech Tips

'93 Ford F-150, Radius Arm Bushing

Q: My '93 Ford F-150 4X4 had to have the right hand side radius arm bushing replaced about 3 years ago. Now, 40k miles later, the front end started creaking again and an inspection revealed that not only the right hand side needed replacing again but the left side too. This is my first Ford pick-up but it seems unusual to have such a part wear out. Current mileage is 115k. Mileage at the first replacement was 75k.

- Dave L.

A: The left side radius arm bushing needing replacement is no surprise at your vehicle’s mileage and age. It really should have been replaced when the right side was serviced/replaced. However, why did the right side seem to live such a short life? If I’m not mistaken, the exhaust on your Ford passes very close to the right side radius arm bushing. Depending on which engine configuration your truck has there may even be a converter that is pretty close by as well. Also, I believe that there should be a heat shield on the right radius arm bushing to protect and deflect some of the heat from the exhaust. Last, but of importance, the aftermarket has replacement bushings that are made for high temperature operation. The aftermarket came up with these high temperature replacement bushings for a reason.