How to Replace a Radius Rod Bushing on a Pontiac GTO the Right Way
How to Replace a Radius Rod Bushing on a Pontiac GTO the Right Way
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How to Replace a Radius Rod Bushing on a Pontiac GTO the Right Way
The Pontiac GTO, especially the 2004–2006 models based on the Holden Monaro platform, is a performance classic with a loyal following. Like all aging performance vehicles, wear and tear on suspension components is inevitable—especially on parts like the radius rod bushings, which are critical for maintaining alignment, stability, and steering response. Radius rod bushing GTO
If you’ve been noticing vague steering, uneven tire wear, or clunking noises under braking or acceleration, your radius rod bushings may be worn out. Replacing them the right way not only restores handling but also helps prevent premature tire and suspension wear.
Let’s walk through how to replace your radius rod bushings the right way—from prep to torque specs—so your GTO performs as sharply as it was meant to.
What Are Radius Rod Bushings?
Radius rods (also called caster rods or strut rods) are part of the front suspension system that help maintain the correct position of the lower control arm during braking and acceleration. They link the control arm to the chassis, and the bushings act as a cushion between the rod and the car body.
Worn bushings can’t properly absorb forces, leading to increased play, alignment issues, and an unstable driving experience. Replacing them restores precision and protects the rest of the suspension.
Tools and Parts You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather the right tools:
Tools:
Jack and jack stands (or a lift)
Lug wrench or impact gun
Socket set (metric)
Wrenches
Torque wrench
Hammer or mallet
Pry bar
Bushing press tool (or a hydraulic press)
WD-40 or penetrating oil
Parts:
Replacement radius rod bushings (OEM or polyurethane)
Optional: Replacement radius rods (if bent or corroded)
Anti-seize compound
Grease (if using polyurethane bushings)
Time Required: 2–3 hours per side, depending on tools and experience.
Step-by-Step: Replacing Radius Rod Bushings
Step 1: Safety First
Park your GTO on a flat surface and chock the rear wheels.
Loosen the front lug nuts, raise the vehicle with a jack, and secure it on jack stands.
Remove the front wheels.
Step 2: Locate the Radius Rod
The radius rod runs from the lower control arm forward to the subframe.
You'll see the bushing housed in a bracket on the frame, with the rod bolted through it.
Step 3: Remove the Radius Rod
Spray the mounting bolts with penetrating oil and let them sit for a few minutes.
Remove the nut where the radius rod attaches to the lower control arm.
Loosen and remove the bolt/nut securing the bushing at the frame.
Carefully slide the rod out of the bracket and inspect it for damage or wear.
Step 4: Remove the Old Bushing
If you’re using a press tool, follow the instructions to press the old bushing out of the bracket.
If using a hammer and chisel (not recommended, but sometimes necessary), carefully work the bushing out. Avoid damaging the bracket.
Clean the bracket and rod thoroughly. Remove rust and debris to ensure a snug fit for the new bushing.
Step 5: Install the New Bushing
If using polyurethane bushings, grease them lightly with the included lube to prevent squeaks.
Press the new bushing into the bracket or install it on the rod, depending on the design.
Make sure the bushing is centered and seated properly—misalignment can cause premature failure.
Step 6: Reinstall the Radius Rod
Reinsert the radius rod through the new bushing into the bracket.
Reattach the end to the lower control arm.
Thread the nuts and bolts by hand first, then snug them up.
Important: Don’t fully torque the bolts yet. You need the suspension to be loaded before final tightening to prevent bushing preload.
Step 7: Load the Suspension and Torque
Lower the car slightly so the front suspension is loaded—ideally with the full weight of the vehicle on the wheels. This simulates the driving position and keeps the bushings in their neutral position.
Then torque the bolts to factory specs:
Radius rod to lower control arm nut: ~81 ft-lbs
Radius rod bushing bolt (to subframe): ~85 ft-lbs
(Always double-check torque values for your specific model year.)
Step 8: Test Drive and Alignment
Once everything is torqued:
Double-check all fasteners.
Reinstall the wheels and lower the car completely.
Take a short test drive. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to steering feel.
Important: After replacing radius rod bushings, it’s highly recommended to get a professional alignment. Even a slight change in bushing geometry can affect caster, which influences steering stability and return-to-center behavior.
Pro Tips for Longevity and Performance
Polyurethane vs. Rubber: Poly bushings last longer and offer crisper response but may transmit more vibration. Rubber bushings ride smoother but wear out faster. Choose based on your goals.
Check other bushings: While you’re in there, inspect control arm and sway bar bushings. Replacing them at the same time can save labor and enhance performance.
Torque with weight on wheels: Preloading bushings by tightening them while the suspension is drooping leads to early failure. Always torque with the car at ride height.
Look out for leaks: If your GTO has fluid-filled bushings (some OEMs did), you may notice leaking fluid—another sign it's time to replace them.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the radius rod bushings on a Pontiac GTO isn’t just maintenance—it’s an upgrade. Done right, it’ll bring back the sharp, responsive handling the car was built for. Whether you’re chasing cornering precision or just cleaning up clunks and sloppy steering, this repair is well worth your time.
With the right parts, tools, and a bit of patience, you’ll not only fix the problem—you’ll fall in love with your GTO’s road feel all over again.
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