I have a few questions regarding front suspension judging. The Judging Guide states that replacement ball joints (even thought not like OEM) are not penalized... as long as they are riveted. What about control arm bushings? Are there differences between current replacements (rubber) and the OEM to look for that would affect judging? Thanks!
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Re: Judging Question
John - the upper control arm bushings until recently appear different than originals, showing less exposed rubber through the metal sleeve. However, there is a correct replacement now available from Steve Hack of Eastern Corvettes for #10 each. The lower bushings from GM and other suppliers still is configured like the originals. As fare as the ball joints, I have always heard that the different style aftermarket joints WERE a judging issue even if riveted....Craig -
Re: Judging Question
John-----
As far as I know (I don't participate in judging), the configuration of the a-arm bushings is judged if the judge looks for it. The lower bushings available in the aftermarket and from GM are identical, or virtually identical, to the originals used on all 63-82 Corvettes.
The upper SERVICE bushings used for 63-72 Corvettes and sold by both GM (since 1973) and the aftermarket are configured a little differently than the original bushings. However, exact reproduction 63-72 style bushings are now available in reproduction for about 10 bucks each. So, the "scalping" for original NOS bushings has been dealt a cruel blow. It's impossible to discern the reproductions (which I believe are made by the original 63-72 bushing supplier) from the original bushings. Plus, they're brand new and made from improved elastomers.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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