GEN 2 Greasing Squeaky Front Leaf Spring Bushings

[Domin0]

Hey all,

I haven't found a definitive answer as for how to do this, and am hoping someone on FRF may have some guidance. I was getting some pretty aggravating creaks and squeaks from the rear suspension following a Raptor run, and was able to resolve the worst of it by lifting up the ass of the truck, letting the springs droop, power-washing them, hitting them with compressed air, and then lubricating the rebound clips and tip isolators with PTFE dry lube.

The squeaking's come back after a couple weeks, and I've narrowed it down to the front bushings. Spritzing PTFE into what I could access completely eliminated the sound, but only for a couple days, so I'd like to remove the bolts and properly clean the bushings of any residual dirt/mud, then regrease 'em.

Is it as simple as lifting the rear up again, placing the frame on stands, and using the jack on the axle to modulate the springs once the bolts are out?

Thanks!

 

[Nex]

The bushings are probably shot and need to be replaced. If you are still on stock springs in the rear they are most likely flat.

 

[Old-Raptor-guy]

Stock or aftermarket (Polyurethane) bushings?

 

[shigman]

Ive got deaver 3+ packs and its the exact same thing. During a rain storm they are quiet as a church mouse, and after I spray them with WD40 lithium spray they are quiet for 1-2 weeks. The farm truck sound always returns. The springs are only about 2 years old. Looking forward to my gen 3 order 50% just for the quiet coils lol.

 

[Domin0]

The bushings are probably shot and need to be replaced. If you are still on stock springs in the rear they are most likely flat.

Stock or aftermarket (Polyurethane) bushings?

On a pair of Deaver +2s (new poly bushings) that have only seen maybe 3,000 miles since they were put on earlier in the year, otherwise I'd say you're right about the originals being kaput.

Ive got deaver 3+ packs and its the exact same thing. During a rain storm they are quiet as a church mouse, and after I spray them with WD40 lithium spray they are quiet for 1-2 weeks. The farm truck sound always returns. The springs are only about 2 years old. Looking forward to my gen 3 order 50% just for the quiet coils lol.

Ha. I'd be lying if I said I haven't been thinking about a Gen 3 just for the coils but I swore I'd keep this thing until either it dies, or I do.

 

[Old-Raptor-guy]

Yea, poly bushings squeak. Hollow bolt with grease zirk would be a nice touch if they made one.

 

[Morgan]

I've used this stuff in the past with good success and longevity. It's super tacky- wear gloves for sure.

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[Domin0]

I was able to unbolt the leafs up front in order clean and grease at least a portion of the front bushings this afternoon. I don’t have the tools to remove them, so just worked with what I could access. I used Energy Suspension Formula 5. After a short drive, it seems like the issue has gone away, but time will tell.

 

[Domin0]

…Aaand the sound returned this morning.

Determined to try and resolve it the right way, I loaned a ball joint press from AutoZone to remove the inner sleeve from the poly bushings, and then just gently pried them out. Cleaned them, used teflon tape, and coated them in grease before reinstalling them. Torqued the bolts on either side down to 250ft.lbs.

All that, and it’s just as bad as before. Sort of just at a loss at this point. I’ve read through every relevant thread here and other forums multiple times. Video:

 

[Old-Raptor-guy]

OH BOY, that would drive me insane.