Should You Replace Your Body Mount Bushes When Doing a Body Lift?

If your fitting a body lift and your body mount bushes are worn, it is a good time to replace them.

You’re already working on the body mounts, so combining the jobs can save pulling everything apart again later.

Bushes that are still in good condition don’t automatically need replacing. But on an older 4WD, it pays to check them before installing lift blocks.

Does a body lift kit replace the body mount bushes?

A body lift kit and body mount bushes do different jobs.

The lift blocks provide lift, increasing the distance between the body and chassis. The rubber body mount bushes support and cushion the body, helping reduce the noise and vibration transferred into the cabin.

A Flatout Offroad body lift retains the rubber bushes as part of the mounting assembly. But adding lift blocks won’t repair rubber that has split, collapsed or deteriorated.

What should you check before fitting a body lift?

Look at every body mount, rather than judging the overall condition from the easiest one to see. Look for:

• Deep cracks, splits or missing pieces of rubber.

• Bushes that have compressed or collapsed.

• Uneven support between mounting points.

• Damaged or corroded sleeves, washers and bolts.

• Rust or damage around the mounting brackets.

Knocking, creaking and increased cabin vibration can also point to worn body mount bushings, although other components can cause similar symptoms.

Our guide to symptoms of worn body mount bushings explains what to look for.

Why replace worn bushes at the same time?

There is an overlap in the work involved. Both jobs require access to the mounting hardware and controlled lifting of the body, following the correct procedure for the vehicle.

Replacing worn bushes during the body lift can reduce duplicated labor and gives you an opportunity to inspect the mounts properly.

If several bushes have deteriorated, replacing the set can also provide more consistent support than mixing new bushes with old, compressed ones.

Will new body bushes add more lift?

Replacement bushes are intended to restore the body’s support and isolation. They aren’t a substitute for a body lift kit.

However, if the old rubber has sagged, new bushes may restore some lost body height. 

Choosing the right body mount bushing kit

Match the bushes to your vehicle’s model and year. 

Flatout Offroad supplies rubber body mount bushing kits for a range of popular 4WDs.

If you’re planning a body lift and aren’t sure which bushes suit, send us your vehicle details and we can help you choose the right kit.