Faulty Stabilizer bar bush, repair possible?
Discussion
My A110 pure (with S antiroll bars) suffers from a loud squeeking noise when driving over bumps, coming from the front area. Had it checked during the recent service and the Alpine mechanic is pretty sure that it is caused by a loose antrollbar bush. The right side is still okay, pictures attached.
The Alpine Center wanted to order a new bar as the car is still in the 3 year warranty, but I had to tell them that I changed them to the S version, what is not covered by the warranty, of course.
Long story short: As the bushes are glued to the bar and cannot be changed single I am afraid I need a new front bar. Or is it possible to repair/re-glue the bush with some kind of PUR glue like Sikaflex?
The Alpine Center wanted to order a new bar as the car is still in the 3 year warranty, but I had to tell them that I changed them to the S version, what is not covered by the warranty, of course.
Long story short: As the bushes are glued to the bar and cannot be changed single I am afraid I need a new front bar. Or is it possible to repair/re-glue the bush with some kind of PUR glue like Sikaflex?
Edited by k_m on Wednesday 17th June 13:03
Are bushes glued to the bar a normal thing in OEM circles broadly, or just Alpine/Renault? Personally I've not come across that before, and have replaced many a sway bar with aftermarket versions (bushes not attached).
That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
PHusername said:
Are bushes glued to the bar a normal thing in OEM circles broadly, or just Alpine/Renault? Personally I've not come across that before, and have replaced many a sway bar with aftermarket versions (bushes not attached).
That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
Both bonded and non bonded are normal.That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
PHusername said:
Are bushes glued to the bar a normal thing in OEM circles broadly, or just Alpine/Renault? Personally I've not come across that before, and have replaced many a sway bar with aftermarket versions (bushes not attached).
That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
I installed them above a pit with the wheels on ground. No tension on the bars this way. The picture is taken on a lift, that's why it looks bended.That might explain why some mechanics will say to only install sway bars with wheels "on the ground" so the suspension is in its normal position. So perhaps when OP's swaybar was changed that didn't happen & is why it looks twisted & torn...?
Glued bushes are quite common nowadays, propably easier to equip for the car manufacturer, but not maintainance friendly for the end customer.
Edited by k_m on Friday 22 May 09:38
k_m said:
I installed them above a pit with the wheels on ground. No tension on the bars this way. The picture is taken on a lift, that's why it looks bended.
That blows my theory. What's that leave, faulty bushings or exceeded design life? I find the latter to be unlikely, unless you'd covered 100K miles or more.Edited by k_m on Friday 22 May 09:38
I have a very similar rattle from the rear (also S) and I’m wondering if it’s the anti roll bar too. I had a broken right rear spring which I believe has been putting stress on some of the other components - I thought it was the drop link, but after replacing it, it’s no better. Next on my list is the anti roll bar, frustrating that you can’t just change the bracket! When I get time I’m going to disconnect the drop links and see if the noise disappears.
Would be interesting to know if you managed to fix it
Would be interesting to know if you managed to fix it
Update:
I disconnected the droplinks from the bar and took a test drive... total silence. So I removed the bar from the car. Indeed, the left hand side bush has worked loose and is squeeking like hell. Sounds like an old door with dry hinges.
I've put it on a bench and tried to glue it back on with windshield glue. Will let it dry for 2 days and gonna re-install it. But I doubt this will be a long term solution. The seller, Optimiz Access, still responds that they are in contact with the manufacturer to find a solution.
I disconnected the droplinks from the bar and took a test drive... total silence. So I removed the bar from the car. Indeed, the left hand side bush has worked loose and is squeeking like hell. Sounds like an old door with dry hinges.
I've put it on a bench and tried to glue it back on with windshield glue. Will let it dry for 2 days and gonna re-install it. But I doubt this will be a long term solution. The seller, Optimiz Access, still responds that they are in contact with the manufacturer to find a solution.
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