The radius arm bushing sleeves are NLA from VW. However, VC and BD
both have them as does Frank Condelli. I made some out of steel pipe
(the dimensions are really close) but that is a waste of time.

The radius arm parts on my lower mileage '88 were more worn than
anticipated. The sleeves were ok but the lip on each bushing (one per
side) was really worn. Thankfully the holes were nearly perfect with
minor rust pitting. Hopefully the holes on your sub frame are ok. They
can be repaired though.

IIRC, Alistair "greased" his new bushing sleeves (rust protectant
measure). Can't recall what he used.

@ the list: add some kind of "thick" grease or equal between bushings
and sub frame? Help keep the frame from rusting (as fast) or slow down
rust?  Something that wouldn't affect the rubber?

on my '88 holes on d-side were in really good shape. P-side much
different http://tinyurl.com/b7oy7u3  though both still ok. In
hindsight I should have at least put some protectant on the sleeves.

Neil.

On Thu, Jan 10, 2013 at 7:29 AM, Jeff Lincoln <magikvw@gmail.com> wrote:

> Every bit of rubber I have looked at under there
> is cracked, split, or torn to some degree. Some of the other items - well I
> agree maybe I shouldn't be so hasty in replacing them. My, still novice,
> thinking was that if I know some parts are shot chances are others aren't
> far to follow - I'd be willing to bet I'm looking at all original 28 year
> old parts under there and this vehicle (as far as I can tell) has lived
> here in the midwest snow areas of Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan all it's
> life. It was also rescued by the PO from a scrap yard (possibly days before
> being crushed). However, my thinking has been flawed before and I can fully
> entertain the idea that it is flawed here as well. I'll be sure to have my
> friend take a look more closely before I order any parts.

--
Neil n

65 kb image Myford Ready For Assembly  http://tinyurl.com/64sx4rp

'88 Slate Blue Westy to be named.

'81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"  http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

Vanagon VAG Gas I4/VR Swap Google Group:

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines