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Replacing front shocks: New upper bushings smaller diameter than origi


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2003 GMC Sierra 1500 4.8

 

Replacing my shocks with a set of Reflex front and rear. I went to install the fronts, and noticed the bushings (insulator?) for the front upper shock mount are smaller in diameter than what I am replacing. The outer diameter of the old bushing is 2.0", new bushing is 1.5". Everything else measures out the same (except the inner diameter of the old bushing which is clearly overdue for replacing.)

 

Anybody else come across this? Is it safe to use the smaller diameter bushing? Edit to add: I installed one of the shocks last night with the new smaller bushings, and it looks right, and everything fit. It just doesn't cover the same surface area as the old larger bushing.

 

Pics below. New bushing on the left, old on the right.

 

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Old bushing was compressed over many years.

As long as ID and "lip" fit properly in hole in shock housing, no problem.

Typically bushing should be compressed such that it barely bulges out from metal washer.

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Old bushing was compressed over many years.

As long as ID and "lip" fit properly in hole in shock housing, no problem.

Typically bushing should be compressed such that it barely bulges out from metal washer.

 

These are very dense bushings, so I don't think the larger bushing compressed that much over the years. And I don't believe the top bushing bears that much weight. It only has the washer on top of it. The bushing heights are the same between new and old (3/4"). Also, the old washer fits the diameter of the old bushing (2.25" washer for 2.0" bushing). I'm sure it compressed a few millimeters over the years, but not enough for it to go from 1.5" to 2.0".

 

And the ID and lip do fit properly, so I think I'll finish installing both shocks and take a test drive around the neighborhood. Thank you for the advice.

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Installed both shocks with the smaller bushings. While the old, larger bushings were very dense and didn't compress much, the smaller ones compressed and spread out a lot. I've driven a few miles on them and it all feels good. Really happy with the Reflex shocks.

 

Sent an email out to Monroe asking about the size of the bushings, just in case. I imagine they'll respond with the all clear.

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I replaced all four shocks on my 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 this past weekend. When replacing the front shocks the hardware was identical to what came off the truck. These were the cheap Monroe shocks as well ($25/each). The shocks that I replaced were also cheap aftermarket ones too. I would double check the part numbers and make sure they are correct.

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