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Part V: Observations and comments
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So, all four of my subframe bushings were cracked and empty of fluid. The front two were cracked both top and bottom and the rear bushings were cracked in the bottom. My 540it only had 81k miles. (New bushing on left, one of the busted ones on the right)
Mileage seems to be indifferent as far as bushing damage. My bushings at 81k miles looked as bad (or worse) than Dinan E39s at 120k+. I wonder if they actually fail closer to 60k miles than 80k.
On my test drive, I notice swifter response to throttle pedal inputs. I mean, it feels like the rear end of the Tour is sticking so much better than before with no hesitation. We reasoned that when the bearings wear out, on acceleration, it would allow the rear suspension to pivot for the travel of the damaged bushing before the the body set. Definitely a more solid feel and setting up for a turn no longer has a hesitation or shifting feel to it. The rear end definitely feels more planted. I didn’t have any noise associated with the bushings. Dinan E39 did have some body rattling noise which was eliminated with this fix.
For me, it is a noticeable improvement, similar to the experience of replacing my rear shocks a few weeks ago.
Update: It poured rain today, it was a DSC kind of day. I had a 45 mile sprint each way to take care of a chore. The Tour was much more planted and stable through both legs. On the return trip, I followed some wet twisties home and the Tour’s stability was definitely noticeable. The Tour is more neutral. stable and set in it’s path.
This was not a difficult DIY at all, thanks to the really cool bushing tool and great instructions.
My install by myself took 5 hours. Dinan E39, Mike and I knocked his off in 2.5 hours. I encourage anyone who has the knocking or looseness in their Tour to take this DIY on.
Brake system overhaul next… Cheers!