In all this discussion on radius rods, I think that welding in washers is
the way to go BUT you should take a look at the radius rod bushing kits I
installed that come from T3 Techniques. Instead of having just two dished
steel washers that can let the rod slip around in the hole, they have a
two-piece machined aluminum part that looks like it would do a much more
effective job of holding the rod in place, even if the hole was a bit
compromised. And then, of course, you get the excellent properties of the
poly bushing itself.

I am going from memory here from an install over a year ago, but I recall
thinking at the time that they could keep someone from having to weld
washers in.

Jim

On Tue, Jan 20, 2015 at 9:42 AM, Tim Mc Dermott <h2oboxer@verizon.net>
wrote:

> When I did my 1985, the radius rod was worn from rubbing against the
> frame. Not bad enough to be replaced, though.
>
> I purchased a replacement just in case, but did not need it.
>
> Tim
>
>
>
> > On Jan 20, 2015, at 1:04 AM, Miguel Pacheco <mundopacheco@GMAIL.COM>
> wrote:
> >
> > Ok, got it. Perhaps a washer, of similar thickness and same ID, welded in
> > place. I have to suggest that this is a very forgiving area. This van has
> > held alignment, without unusual wear, for quite some time. The rust is
> > formidable and I can only guess that if these components hold their
> > positions after alignment, all will be well.
> > Now the challenge is to remove the radius rods from their berths, at the
> > lower control arms. I started my attempt at removal today, after soaking
> in
> > penetrating oil for two days, then hitting them with mapp gas. Not a hint
> > of budging so far. These have to come out, as the bushing ends are
> > destroyed by rust and wear.
> > Thank you very much for all your help......
> >
> > *Miguel*
> >
> > *The free soul is rare, but you know it when you see it- basically
> because
> > you feel good, very good, when you are near or with them. *
> > *- Charles Bukowski, Tales of Ordinary*
> >
> >
> >
> >> On Mon, Jan 19, 2015 at 11:16 AM, Neil N <musomuso@gmail.com> wrote:
> >>
> >> Also, in hindsight....
> >> My assumption is that on an undamaged hole, when parts are assembled
> >> the bushings end up close to, or touching, each other. Adding a new
> >> metal plate might result in a gap
> >> between each bushing lip. Even so. The metal sleeve should provide
> >> ample protection.
> >> If a gap between the rubber bushings resulted, my guess is that it
> >> wouldn't be an issue,
> >> even over the long term. Just something to consider IMO.
> >>
> >> Neil.
> >>
> >>> On 1/19/15, Neil N <musomuso@gmail.com> wrote:
> >>>
> >>> damage etc. on the '81 with link to repair at page bottom:
> >>>
> >>> https://sites.google.com/site/tubaneil2/radiusarm
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >> --
> >> Neil n
> >>
> >> Blog: Vanagons, Westfalia, general <http://tubaneil.blogspot.ca>
> >>
> >> 1988 Westy Images <https://picasaweb.google.com/musomuso/New1988Westy>
> >>
> >> 1981 Westfalia "Jaco" Images, technical <
> http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/>
> >>
> >> Vanagon-Bus VAG Gas Engine Swap Group <http://tinyurl.com/khalbay>
> >>
>