front end

I want to rebuild the front end of my high mileage 1975 Vette. I have a choice between rubber and polyurethane bushing to do this. I don't know the pro's and con's of each. Is there someone out there who can help? Thanks a TON!! Darrell

Darrell, I'd go with the rubber bushings. From what I hear the poly bushings give a harsh ride and quite often make alot of noise. I bought a kit with the rubber bushings. Haven't installed them yet but hope to do it this year. I'm sure other members will have some more pros and cons for you. Kevin

I installed urethane and during install used plenty of the silicone grease on the bushings and have  not experience any noise, but since this is the only Vette I have owned I cannot tell you the about the difference in roughness. I believe the urethane are suppose to last longer.

 I used black urethane and the recomended silicone grease. NO noise, better handeling, ride does seem stiff, but not harsh.  I am happy.

The urethane will definitely last longer if installed properly, with the proper amount of grease. They do firm up the suspension, as far as things deflecting in turns, which makes it feel like it handles better, and it does slightly. The thing is, urethane will not deteriorate like the rubber components do over time. And yes, urethane bushings can/will make noise if not installed according to the destructions that come with the bushings.
It all comes down to whether or not you wanna drive it and not worry about ever having to replace them again, or having the car Judged sometime down the road....

I agree with the comments above.  I personally always use rubber because it is correct, it never makes noise, and it rides nicer.  Urethane does last longer, and is better if you are going to road race, but that is not enough to tip the balance for me.  Rubber will last at least ten years, and probably much longer.

Larry