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Track Bar Bushing

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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 10:46 AM
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Default Track Bar Bushing

On my Daughters 2009 JKU the track bar bushing has some movement. She has a bad wobble after hitting certain bumps. The track bar has been replaced years ago and we don't know what one it is. The previous owner thinks RC... Does anyone know where I can find a replacement bushing for this? See pics



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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 11:38 AM
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That upper CA bushing at the diff end looks worse to me than the TB bushing. But it is a picture. And that UCA is not a Jeep product by the looks of it.
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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 01:28 PM
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Usually, the TB joint that is an issue is the frame-side. You seem to be highlighting the axle side there, though, there should be little play regardless. If you do think there is real play, I would just replace the entire TB unit. Yes, that will cost a bit more, but you can get a high quality TB (Metalcloak) will run you $200. It is one of the most important front end components on that vehicle and that bushing that MC is using in both ends is very reliable. Two bolts and that is replaced, no messing around trying to find a bushing for something the likes of RC in my opinion. Also, given she's had wobbles, the entire front end really needs a good inspection. The stress of a wobble really wears on everything else. I would really scrutinize the state of the ball joints. If you don't know how then jack it up so the tires are a couple inches off the ground and stick a shovel under the tire. Step on the handle to force upward pressure under the tire and inspect for play at the knuckle/C. You may see some flexing but you should not see up/down movement.
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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 01:29 PM
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Originally Posted by Sixty4x4
That upper CA bushing at the diff end looks worse to me than the TB bushing. But it is a picture. And that UCA is not a Jeep product by the looks of it.
The TB bushing is the only thing loose... What UCA doesn't look like a Jeep product???
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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 01:46 PM
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Originally Posted by resharp001
Usually, the TB joint that is an issue is the frame-side. You seem to be highlighting the axle side there, though, there should be little play regardless. If you do think there is real play, I would just replace the entire TB unit. Yes, that will cost a bit more, but you can get a high quality TB (Metalcloak) will run you $200. It is one of the most important front end components on that vehicle and that bushing that MC is using in both ends is very reliable. Two bolts and that is replaced, no messing around trying to find a bushing for something the likes of RC in my opinion. Also, given she's had wobbles, the entire front end really needs a good inspection. The stress of a wobble really wears on everything else. I would really scrutinize the state of the ball joints. If you don't know how then jack it up so the tires are a couple inches off the ground and stick a shovel under the tire. Step on the handle to force upward pressure under the tire and inspect for play at the knuckle/C. You may see some flexing but you should not see up/down movement.
The whole steering linkage is new as well as the ball joints... The only movement I can find it at the axle side of the TB. Everything else is tight. I just want to find a better replacement bushing for that bar.
I've been repairing cars for over 45 years now also... I'm no newbie to this.

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Old Nov 30, 2021 | 02:45 PM
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Well, it does look like a RC bar. Have you called them? They should be able to provide you with the replacement bushing.
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Old Dec 1, 2021 | 02:30 AM
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Looks like those are the stock track bar bolts? After you get the bushing sorted, I would highly recommend upgrading to 9/16" shouldered bolts. The stock bolt is 14mm non-shouldered, and has significantly more slop than the appropriate bolt. Could very well be what caused the bushing play in the first place. If it is the stock bolt, when you take it off, I bet the threads have worn down into the bushing sleeve....causing the slop.

This is what I always use. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018Q6FIQ0...roduct_details

Last edited by cartoscro; Dec 1, 2021 at 02:52 AM.
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Old Dec 1, 2021 | 06:27 AM
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That UCA looks round in the picture but studying it hard it looks stock. Sorry for the mislead

Last edited by Sixty4x4; Dec 1, 2021 at 06:32 AM.
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