Rear suspension "refresh" - what to replace?

Unless I missed it, there doesn't seem to be a unified FAQ on refreshing the rear suspension as there is an equivalent for the front suspension, such as the front control arm thread.
 
I understand the rear suspension is simpler, seems to generally be more robust and needs less attention.  But as I am about to replace the rear shocks (20yrs old, leaking) and likely install a new rear swaybar (since I already have an Addco for the front sitting in a box), I thought I'd ask what else is recommended for the rear suspension while I'm in there.
 
As mentioned, I plan to replace:
 
- Rear air-shocks with Monroe MA822
 
- Rear shock upper mounts
 
- Rear sway bar and associated end-links
 
 
What else:
 
- Control arm bushings?  The bushings are available, but are they really user servicable, or actually impossible to install (like the aluminum front control arm bushings)?  Is it even necessary in the rear?
 
- Outer tie rod end?  Appears discontinued.
 
- Anything else?






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Quote :

- Rear air-shocks with Monroe MA822

- Rear shock upper mounts

- Rear sway bar and associated end-links

I would just do these. Easier, and less cost. I still have my original tie rods and control arm bushings, even bearings. Back end is light, things tend to last longer.

You can and should inspect the tie rod and control arm bushings for play. However, there probably won't be much. Those bushings are 'break/fix' kinds of things. Not something to bother with preventively. Only if you have a problem.

deekster_caddy wrote:

You can and should inspect the tie rod and control arm bushings for play. However, there probably won't be much. Those bushings are 'break/fix' kinds of things. Not something to bother with preventively. Only if you have a problem.

Are the bushings even easily replaceable once the arm is removed?

I ask because the bushings in the front control arms are apparently either completely unserviceable or very difficult to press in.

al_roethlisberger wrote:

Are the bushings even easily replaceable once the arm is removed?

I ask because the bushings in the front control arms are apparently either completely unserviceable or very difficult to press in.

You can probably do it but it would probably require removing the whole control arm and pressing them out with a hydraulic press. Not something worth doing unless they are completely shot.

What rear bar are you going to use? Addco, FE3, or F41?

I'll be putting in an Addco as I just bought a secondhand Addco front on the forum here.

Al

Not exactly serviceable, I'm not sure if they are available or not. I don't know of any such bushings that are "easy" to install. But you should certainly become aware if something back there has a lot of play before you go trying to stiffen up the rear suspension. You can decide not to do anything about it, but at least you'll know.

Check the joints on the adjustment arms. The boots on mine are cracked and leaking grease, which normally indicates need of replacement, but I caught them before they dried out. Still nice and tight. I hit them with a grease gun a couple times a year to keep them lubed up.