I can't add much to this thread.  The ones I changed are good.  But I'm not
sure, if we are changing them to the same original part.  It is a simple
item and I don't see why it should make a noise.  It did not make noise
before I took it out, and it was real loose.
So, is not Meyle or Fab the same as OEM?
Zoltan

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ed" <email99@BELLSOUTH.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 9:14 AM
Subject: Re: sick of replacing Control Arm Bushings every year

>I wonder how many upper control arm bushings are being damaged during spot
> welding?
>
> I've replace the bushings twice and each time I've asked a very highly
> recommended classic VW shop to do the minimum spot welding as to minimize
> the amount of heat the rubber and teflon (or whatever) components would be
> subjected to.  Each time there were several fairly large spot welds, in my
> opinion, and what appeared to be significant damage to the bushings.  Each
> time there wasn't much I could do so I installed the bushings, making sure
> the appropriate shims were in place so excessive pressure was not created
> by
> the large mounting bolt.  Each time they were squeaking and clunking after
> ~5K miles.
>
> Do others think the bushings are being destroyed by excessive welding
> heat?
>
> If anyone has had a good experience with control arm bushing replacement,
> please let us know and indicate how large the welding spots were.  Were
> special precautions made to reduce the amount and duration of heat in the
> welding process?  Any other suggestions?
>
> What brand of bushings have people had good experiences with?
>
> Thanks all,
>
> Ed