Chrysler 300 Suspension Control Arm Bushing Guide: 1965-1972
Keep your classic Chrysler 300 handling correctly by understanding, identifying, and replacing worn control arm bushings.
- Symptoms of failure include clunking noises, steering wander, and uneven tire wear.
- Replacement is a complex job for this specific vehicle due to the press-fit bushings and torsion bar front suspension.
- New OEM parts are not available; quality aftermarket brands like Moog and Mevotech are the standard for restoration.
- A professional wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing control arm bushings.
Signs of Failing Control Arm Bushings
The rubber on a 50-year-old car has done its job and is ready for retirement. When control arm bushings wear out on your Chrysler 300, the suspension's geometry changes, leading to noticeable problems. Look out for these common symptoms:
- Clunking or Squeaking Noises: You may hear squeaking over bumps in the early stages of wear. As it gets worse, this can become a clunking or knocking sound as the control arm makes contact with the frame.
- Steering Wander: The car may pull to one side or feel like it's wandering on the road, requiring constant steering correction. This happens because the worn bushings can no longer hold the wheel alignment steady.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Inspect your front tires. Excessive wear on the inner or outer edges is a classic sign that your alignment is off due to bad bushings.
- Vibrations: A failing bushing can cause vibrations that you feel in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
Don't Ignore the Signs
While the car may still be drivable with minor squeaks, severely worn bushings are a safety concern. They can lead to poor handling, unpredictable steering, and accelerated wear on other suspension components and tires.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bushings
For a vehicle from this era, finding New Old Stock (NOS) OEM parts is nearly impossible and very expensive. The realistic and common choice is a new aftermarket part. Modern materials can often provide better durability than the original 1960s rubber. Your main choices will be between Moog and Mevotech.
| Brand Tier | Available Brands | Typical Price Range (Per Bushing/Kit) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Aftermarket | Moog (Problem Solver), Mevotech (TTX) | $40 - $60.35 | Owners seeking the highest durability, potentially with design improvements over the original. |
| Standard Aftermarket | Mevotech (Supreme), Moog (CK Series) | $20.92 - $40 | Daily drivers and restorers looking for a quality part that meets or exceeds original specifications at a good value. |
Pro Tip: When rebuilding the front suspension on your C-Body Chrysler, it's often best to replace all the wear items at once. This includes upper and lower control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends. Many owners purchase a complete front-end rebuild kit.
Known Issues, Recalls, or TSBs
There are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for suspension control arm bushings on the 1965-1972 Chrysler 300. The primary issue is simply age-related deterioration of the original rubber components. Forum discussions among C-Body owners confirm that bushing replacement is a standard part of restoring and maintaining these vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a special tool to replace these bushings?
Yes. The bushings are press-fit into the control arms. You will need a hydraulic shop press or a specialized bushing driver set to remove the old ones and install the new ones without damage. Furthermore, working on the front suspension of a classic Mopar requires a special tool to safely unload the torsion bars. This is not a simple bolt-off, bolt-on job.
Should I choose rubber or polyurethane bushings?
This depends on your goal. Rubber bushings, like the originals, offer a quieter and softer ride. Polyurethane bushings are firmer, which can improve handling response and steering feel, but may transmit more road noise and vibration into the cabin.
Is an alignment necessary after replacing the bushings?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing the control arm bushings will change the suspension geometry. A full front-end alignment is required to ensure proper handling, safety, and to prevent rapid tire wear.
Is Moog better than Mevotech for my Chrysler 300?
Both brands offer quality options. Moog has a long-standing reputation as a premium brand, while Mevotech offers competitive quality, sometimes at a lower price point. Some forum users have preferences, but there is no universal agreement that one is definitively better than the other for all applications; both are considered reliable choices for restoring your classic.
Technical Specifications
Fits 1965-1972 Chrysler C-Body platform. Bushings are press-fit into upper and lower control arms. Compatible with torsion bar front suspension.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.