So a bit of a different questions about bushings

[blazinzuk]

Not for leaf springs or body mounts or anything that normal.

I have a bunch of bushings, I would need to get steel sleeves for them ( both outside and inside) some of them are kind of small.

I think using the small ones would be fine on the transmission, and transfer case crossmembers, because they aren't controlling as much rotational torque as the engines bushings would be. Also easier to mount.

I don't think they would wear out overly fast either because the forces being exerted on them.

I see the logic in just using the biggest bushing, more space to flex before wear becomes an issue, overall probably more vibration dampening. But I don't think it would be a big deal at all to use these small ones.


So the question is why big bushings ( builder bushing size) for transmission and transfer case mounting?

Talk me out of the small bushings and I will wait till I can get some bigger ones but I think the small ones will be fine

 

[Hogback Fabrication]

You didn't say what "big" is or what "small" bushings are but...

The bushings at the motor mount support more weight but they resist the least torque, because they are ahead of any gear reduction.

The problem with trans/t-case mounts is that their ideal mounting size/width would depend on which gear the trans (or t-case) is shifted in. Of course, you'll want to use all of the gears in the trans and t-case, so there isn't a perfect solution.

Every time you shift trans or t-case gears you're putting stress on the bellhousing/adapters because there are different gear ratios throughout the system.

The ideal is tricky. IMO, keep the mounts about as stiff as the chassis: If you run deep gearing (dual transfer cases etc) with a stock frame, softer mounting will keep things alive better as you'll have plenty of frame and driveline flex to account for. If your chassis is stiff (cage tied to frame, buggy, etc), stiffer mounts work better.

 

[blazinzuk]

Big is what I consider normal bushing size, barrel is about 1.5" in diameter flange on bushing is about 2" and the hole in the middle without sleeve is just a touch under 3/4.

Small is a barrel of about 1 1/8" with a flange about 1.5 with the hole in the middle being the same size as the larger one.

I understand about gear reduction but if the twist is controlled at the motor that helps eliminate twist throughout the whole system? Correct. Plus if there is twist at the motor it will be amplified throughout the system. System being of course the engine transmission and transfer case.

I realize the twist needs to be controlled every where in that system.

I do not think the smaller bushings will have any problem handling the job but I honestly don't know what they are from and I want to make sure they will last for a while. If I don't think they will last it doesn't makes sense to spend the money on the steel to make sleeves for them.

Just so everyone knows this is for Horton, who has very little frame flex left as the cage is tied in as are the sliders engine cage etc etc etc.