Wishbone Bushing

Wishbone Bushing – Front Radius Rod Pivot

1932-1948 Passenger Car, 1939-1948 Merc, 1932-1941 PU

Within the Brakes, Suspension system, the wishbone bushing controls the forward pivot point of the radius rod assembly. On early Ford front suspensions, the radius rod (often called the wishbone) stabilizes axle position under braking and road load. The bushing isolates movement at the frame mount while maintaining fore-and-aft alignment of the solid axle.

This category supports Passenger Car, Merc, PU applications exactly as stated. In these vehicles, the radius rod bushing becomes a wear item after decades of compression, heat, and road contamination. When deterioration occurs, axle shift under braking and steering wander are common symptoms. Excessive play at this pivot changes caster relationship and contributes to instability that cannot be corrected through alignment alone.

If the front end has unexplained movement, this pivot is one of the first areas that should be checked.The Radius Rod Bushing centers and cushions the rear mounting point of the wishbone assembly at the frame crossmember. It must hold the rod in proper alignment while allowing controlled movement through suspension travel.

Wear typically shows as cracking, oval distortion, or separation at the mount. When clearance increases, braking loads can push the axle rearward, affecting steering feel and directional stability.

Fitment will vary by model year or suspension configuration.

Inspect the existing radius rod bushings for compression loss or movement before diagnosing steering or brake pull issues.