How many rear trailing arm bushings do I need for my Vanagon?

For a complete replacement of the rear trailing arm bushings on your Vanagon, you'll need a total of 4 bushings – two for each side of the rear axle assembly. This ensures you have the proper support and handling on both trailing arms.

Are these new bushings the same size as the original ones, or is there a difference?

Our GoWesty Rear Trailing Arm Bushings are engineered to be a direct replacement for your original bushings. While manufacturing processes and material advancements may result in slight variations in the overall dimensions compared to heavily worn original parts, these are designed to fit precisely into the trailing arm and axle carrier for a correct and secure installation. The goal is to restore factory-like fitment and function to your suspension.

What's the best way to install these trailing arm bushings?

Installing the rear trailing arm bushings typically requires specialized tools to press the old bushings out and the new ones in without damaging the trailing arm or the bushing itself. Many customers opt for professional installation by a mechanic experienced with Vanagons. However, if you have the right press tools and a good service manual, it can be a DIY project. Ensuring the bushing is properly seated and aligned is crucial for performance and longevity.

Will replacing my old bushings with these new ones improve my Vanagon's ride quality?

Absolutely! Worn-out rear trailing arm bushings are a common cause of sloppy handling, noise, and a generally poor ride. Replacing them with new, high-quality bushings like ours will significantly restore your Vanagon's handling precision, reduce road noise and vibration, and provide a much more stable and comfortable driving experience. You'll notice a firmer, more controlled feel on the road.

Rear Trailing Arm Bushing

Name: Rear Trailing Arm Bushing
SKU: 251-501-131A
Price: 11.95 USD
Availability: InStock

Rear Trailing Arm Bushing

Product:	251-501-131A
Works With:	1980-1991
Manufacturer:	Quality Aftermarket
Availability:	Low Stock

$11.95

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Rear trailing arm bushing for Vanagon. Two required per trailing arm, four per vehicle.

Fit notes: Do not be alarmed when you notice that the new bushings are not identical in size to the old bushings you removed. The bushings are designed to stretch, which means they will expand to fit the tube as they are pressed in. This is a normal part of their function. It is common for new bushings to have different dimensions compared to the old ones. The narrower width and larger diameter are intentional to ensure a secure fit.

Pro install tip: Save yourself some grief and install these with our special installation tool.

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The Wrong Size For My 85 Vanagon

They are not the same size as the original. The ones i received are about 1/2 inch smaller that the one I removed, and there is no way it will fit in the original trailing arm.

Hi John, these bushings are designed to stretch into place. New bushings are narrower than the ones that have been installed, used for a time, and then removed. we will add some fit notes to the web page to address this rather unintuitive detail. If you still have the bushings you purchased from us, go ahead and install them. I can assure you that they will work beautifully. All the best, GoWesty