Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes — fitted, serviceable and worth keeping fresh

Steering bushes are used on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero (Gen 1, L040 series). Technical references including the Mitsubishi Factory Service Manual for the 1983–1991 Pajero/Montero (Steering group) and OEM parts catalogues show the Pajero’s recirculating-ball steering layout with a centre link, pitman arm and an idler arm that pivots on replaceable bushes. Aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane) also list idler arm bush kits and steering column support bushes for 1980s Pajero models, confirming fitment and serviceability.

On this era Pajero, the steering bushes sit primarily in the idler arm assembly and column support. Their job is to keep the centre link tracking true, soak up vibration, and stop metal-to-metal contact. When they’re in good nick, the wheel feels planted and the ute tracks straight. When they’re flogged out, there’s play in the wheel, wandering on the highway, and a tell-tale shimmy over corrugations.

Owners of a 1987 Pajero should treat steering bushes as consumables, especially if the vehicle sees gravel roads, corrugations or beach work. During servicing, a quick check for play at the idler arm (both vertical and lateral), perished rubber, cracking, or ovalled sleeves is smart. With the front end safely jacked and supported, have a helper work the wheel left–right while watching the idler arm and centre link, any lag before the linkage moves or visible shift at the idler arm pivot points means the bushes are due.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home mechanic with a press, but many prefer swapping in an idler arm bush kit or a complete idler arm assembly. Rubber bushes keep the OE ride and isolation, while polyurethane options sharpen steering feel and last longer off-road. If fitting polyurethane, use the supplied, bush-safe grease only, don’t petroleum-grease rubber bushes. Tighten pivot hardware at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t preloaded at full droop.

After any steering bush work, a wheel alignment is a must. It’s also a good time to inspect the pitman arm joint, tie-rod ends, centre link and the lower steering column bush. A fresh set of bushes often transforms the way a tidy Gen 1 Pajero steers, taking it from vague and fidgety back to confident and predictable.

• Common signs they’re worn: play at the wheel, wandering, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear, and a steering wheel that won’t self-centre cleanly.
• Service tip: recheck fastener torque and bush condition after the first 500–1,000 km of rough-road use.

Popular questions about 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes

How can someone tell if the steering bushes on a 1987 Pajero are shot?
They’ll usually feel extra free play at the wheel, plus shimmy or tramlining at open-road speeds. With the front lifted, visible movement at the idler arm pivot when the steering is rocked is the giveaway. Any cracking, swelling or separation of the bush material means replacement time.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for a Gen 1 Pajero — which is better?
Rubber keeps it factory-quiet and comfy, ideal for daily and touring duty. Polyurethane is tougher and resists deformation, tightening up steering feel for vehicles that see more off-road or towing. For a balanced setup, many fit poly to the idler arm and retain rubber elsewhere.

Is a wheel alignment needed after replacing Pajero steering bushes?
Yes. Even if toe and camber weren’t intentionally altered, fresh bushes can change the resting position of the centre link and tie-rods. An alignment locks in straight-line stability and preserves tyre life.