Suspension Control Arm Bushings for the 1964-1973 Buick Skylark
Restore your classic Skylark's handling and ride quality by replacing worn control arm bushings.
- Worn bushings cause clunking noises, steering wander, and uneven tire wear.
- Choose rubber bushings for a stock ride or polyurethane for improved performance handling.
- Replacement is a difficult job; pressing out old bushings often requires special tools or professional help.
- A wheel alignment is essential after replacing control arm bushings to prevent tire damage.
Symptoms of Failing Control Arm Bushings
Worn control arm bushings on a classic GM A-body car like the Skylark will make themselves known through poor handling and unusual noises. Because the original bushings are made of rubber, they dry out, crack, and lose their ability to hold the control arms firmly in place. Look for these common signs:
- Clunking or Banging Noises: A metallic clunking sound, especially when going over bumps, braking, or making sharp turns, is a classic symptom. This is the sound of metal-on-metal contact as the worn bushing allows for excessive movement between the control arm and the frame.
- Steering Wander: If you find yourself constantly correcting the steering wheel to keep the car straight, your bushings may be to blame. This looseness in the steering is caused by the control arms shifting out of position.
- Uneven Tire Wear: When bushings fail, they can no longer hold the proper suspension alignment. This leads to the tires wearing unevenly, often on the inner or outer edges.
- Vibrations: Excessive vibrations felt through the steering wheel or the floor of the car, particularly at higher speeds, can indicate worn bushings. The wheels can begin to wobble slightly as the bushings lose their ability to dampen vibrations.
Don't Ignore the Signs
While you can drive with worn bushings, it's not recommended for long. Severely worn bushings can affect braking stability and make the car unpredictable, especially during turns or sudden stops. It also puts extra stress on other suspension components like ball joints and tires.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bushings
Since original OEM parts for a 1964-1973 Skylark are generally not available, the aftermarket is your go-to source. You have a choice between standard rubber replacements and polyurethane upgrades.
Brand Quality Tiers
For your Skylark, several brands offer bushings, each with a different reputation for quality and performance.
- ACDelco: As GM's parts division, ACDelco is often considered a reliable choice for a stock-like feel. Their parts are generally designed to meet original equipment standards.
- Mevotech: This brand offers multiple tiers. Their "Supreme" series is known for being a durable, quality replacement, while their "TTX" line is often beefier than stock and built for heavy-duty use. Many owners report good experiences with Mevotech's quality and durability.
- Dorman: Dorman is a widely available aftermarket brand that provides cost-effective solutions. While they are a popular choice for budget-conscious repairs, some users report their longevity may not match premium brands.
- Nolathane / Energy Suspension: These brands specialize in polyurethane bushings. Polyurethane is a harder material than rubber, which results in tighter handling and better performance. However, it can also lead to a stiffer ride and may require periodic lubrication to prevent squeaking. This is a popular upgrade for owners looking for improved handling.
Pro Tip: Rubber vs. Polyurethane
If you want to maintain the original smooth, quiet ride of your Buick Skylark, choose a quality rubber bushing from a brand like ACDelco or Mevotech. If you prioritize sharper steering response and performance handling and don't mind a slightly firmer ride, polyurethane bushings from Nolathane or Energy Suspension are an excellent upgrade.
Cost to Replace Skylark Control Arm Bushings
The cost will depend on whether you replace just the bushings or the entire control arm assembly (if available).
| Part | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Bushing Kit (Front) | $40 - $150 |
| Shop Labor to Press Bushings | $200 - $400 |
| Alignment (Recommended) | $80 - $150 |
Note: Labor costs can be higher because removing old, rusted bushings can be difficult. Often, it is more time-effective to replace the entire control arm if a quality pre-assembled unit is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace the whole control arm or just the bushings?
For a classic car like the 1964-1973 Skylark, the original control arms are robust. As long as the arm itself is not bent or rusted through, just replacing the bushings is a common and cost-effective repair. However, pressing out old, seized bushings can be very difficult and may require special tools or a machine shop. Some owners may opt for new tubular control arms which come with new bushings and ball joints pre-installed.
Is a wheel alignment necessary after replacing control arm bushings?
Yes, a wheel alignment is highly recommended. Replacing the bushings will almost certainly change your vehicle's current alignment settings. Driving without an alignment will cause poor handling and rapid, uneven tire wear.
How difficult is it to replace control arm bushings on a Skylark?
This is a difficult job for a DIY mechanic. It requires safely lifting the vehicle, disassembling major suspension components, and using a press or specialized tools to remove the old bushings and install the new ones. Forum users describe it as a "nightmare job" if the old bushings are rusted in place, sometimes requiring cutting them out with a saw.
Are there any recalls for 1964-1973 Skylark suspension?
Searches on the NHTSA database did not show any specific recalls for control arm bushings for the 1964-1973 Buick Skylark. Any recalls from that era would likely be long expired. Always check for your specific vehicle using its VIN.
Technical Specifications
The 1964-1973 Buick Skylark is a GM A-body platform vehicle. Bushings are available in press-in style for both upper and lower control arms, in either OEM-style rubber or performance polyurethane. It is critical to order the correct size, as variations exist.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.