Which Rear Subframe Bushing is installed correctly?

[goinstrong]

Hi everyone,

I am new to the E30 scene...just picked up a 1988 325iC. Known issue was that the rear half shafts are bad, and the subframe mount bushings suspect.

I just jacked up the rear to look, and the two sides aren't symmetrical. Based on the pictures, which one is correctly installed? If I look up under the one where the frame is nearly together, I can see the bushing, and it appears to be the same as the other one. I figure if I have to replace one, I should do both at the same time I am putting in the half shafts and new shocks. Thanks for the help! It has a vibration/rumble from the rear under hard acceleration or above 55 mph which is directly related to the above issues.

The bonus is that I found out it has an LSD! VERY little slop in it and clean oil!

Tim

[Hick]

pics too small

[ZM Blue Devil]

pics way to small but looks like at the minimum first pic shows one that is done. See the separation?

Replace rear shock mounts as well.

[bzboardz]

brb finding microscope

[Simon S]

Hard to install them incorrectly.
Driver's side looks blown/worn/perished/dead/etc.
Passenger's side looks like it's hangin on yet.

God yes - install them in pairs.
+1 on installing new shock mounts
Advise to replace trailing arm bushings and inner, rear, rubber brake lines "while you're in there"
Rear sway bar mounts/bushings and differential mount/bushing are other maintenance/wear items that are often replaced during this procedure.

[goinstrong]

Thanks for the tips...here's one regarding pictures: hold down the control button and click on the + sign...the picture will get bigger. Maybe that will help!

One has a gap almost 3/4-1" , while the other is more like 1/4-3/8" gap.

Tim

[Simon S]

ctrl + scroll wheel works as well.

Yeah - they're shot.
If they're original (which is likely), they're in need of replacement.

[goinstrong]

Simon S,

Thanks...I will go ahead and replace them...ugh!

Tim

[goinstrong]

jjcarr came by yesterday and confirmed that the driver side subframe bushing is bad. With his help, I will be replacing both sides, the control arm bushings and the differential mount (if needed)at the same time. Thanks JJcarr!
FYI...his 318is is sweet!

Tim