[DeTomaso] A-arm Zirk Fittings

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 5/14/06 13:53:30, pantera at bresnan.net writes:

<< Well, I am getting ready to swap shocks/springs to a more modern set of 
adjustable Carrera's and I am getting tired of the urethane bushings 
creaking, 
especially when they are warm as in Vegas. So, are there any recommendations 
for where to drill for zirk fittings on the a-arm pivots? I know I have seen 
them on some cars and it appears that some are on the bottom and some are on 
the top; is this for clearance or for easier access when you grease them. I 
suspect it is more a clearance issue or else you would snap them off at the 
first bump you hit. 

>>>If you are going to do it, I'd do it on the top for the reasons you stated.

Having said that, I'm told that conventional grease, which is what you would 
be using with a grease fitting, is a very poor choice for this particular job. 
 Some advocate using white teflon tape, others use some sort of magic goo 
that often comes with poly bushings from the vendor, but I have followed Dennis Q
uella's advice and used Permatex silver anti-seize on all my cars.  It works 
absolutely wonderfully, and doesn't seem to degrade over time.  Rather than 
going through the effort to install Zerk fittings, I'd just pull the pushings out 
(which should be fairly simple), remove the old grease, lubricate them 
generously with the silver stuff, then assemble.

Also, realize that the noise you're hearing is NOT coming from the interface 
between the outside of the bushing and the inside of the suspension arm.  The 
noise you're hearing is coming from the ENDS of the bushings where they are 
rotating against the yoke.  The mounting bolts use Nylock nuts, and they are 
just supposed to be snug, no more.  Some people go crazy and torque the hell out 
of the nuts, which pinches the yokes and basically binds up the suspension; 
the thing then creaks something wicked.

>I do think that greasing the bushings would also make for 
a more compliant/plusher ride, especially with the newer shocks and springs. 
>>

>>>Lubrication will go a long way towards allowing compliance, but the real 
culprit is over-torquing the mounting bolts.  Go gently but firmly and all will 
be well. :>)

Mike