Parts for your 1989 Mitsubishi Pajero-Bump stops

1989 Mitsubishi Pajero bump stops — purpose, checks and when to replace

Yes, bump stops are fitted and relevant on the 1989 Mitsubishi Pajero (first‑gen L040 series). Mitsubishi’s factory Workshop Manual for the Pajero/Montero identifies front and rear “bump stoppers/bump rubbers” in the suspension sections, and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists dedicated bump stop components for the 1989 L040 chassis. These parts are there from the factory to protect the suspension, chassis and shocks at full compression.

On this era Pajero, the front independent suspension uses rubber bump stops to limit compression so the upper and lower arms, torsion bars and shocks don’t smash into their mechanical limits. Down the back, the live axle uses bump rubbers on the chassis to stop the axle housing kissing the body under big hits or heavy loads. They’re basically the last line of defence when the springs and shocks have done all they can.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth a quick look every 10,000–15,000 km or at each oil change. If the rubber is cracked, perished, missing chunks, sitting crooked, or permanently squashed, it’s time to swap them out. Oil-soaked bump stops (from a leaky shock or diff breather mess) also degrade quickly. Replacement is usually a straightforward bolt-on job, but support the vehicle safely on stands and follow the workshop manual for any torque specs.

If the Pajero has a lift, heavy bar work, a rear drawer system, or does a lot of towing, consider uprated or slightly taller bump stops to keep travel in check. Just note: firmer polyurethane options can feel harsher on sharp hits. The sweet spot is a bump stop that engages progressively before the shock bottoms out. When changing bump stops, check shock travel and bump stop clearance so everything plays nicely together.

• Common signs they need attention:
  • Clunk or bang on big bumps or speed humps.
  • Visible cracks, splits, or missing/brittle rubber.
  • Shiny or dented witness marks where components have been over-travelling.
  • Uneven ride height or frequent bottoming when loaded.
• Good servicing habits:
  • Inspect fronts and rears whenever the wheels are off.
  • Clean mud and grime so the rubber doesn’t stay wet and perish.
  • Pair new bump stops with healthy shocks and springs for best results.

Kept in good nick, bump stops help the old Pajero handle Aussie and Kiwi backroads, corrugations and beach runs without drama, protecting tyres, shocks and the chassis when the track gets rough.

Popular questions

Where are the bump stops on a 1989 Pajero?
Up front, they sit on the chassis/crossmember area and contact the upper control arm at full compression. Down the back, you’ll find a bump rubber on each side of the chassis above the live axle tube. A quick look from underneath with a torch will spot them easily.

What are the signs my Pajero’s bump stops need replacing?
If you’re hearing clunks over speed bumps, feeling harsh bottoming on rutted tracks, or you can see cracked, perished or missing rubber, they’re due. Also check for fresh metal-to-metal marks around the suspension—often a giveaway the bump stop isn’t doing its job.

Will polyurethane bump stops make the ride too harsh?
Poly options can sharpen the feel on sharp hits, but they’re tougher and can suit lifted or heavily loaded Pajeros. If comfort is a priority, choose a progressive or OE-style rubber. Matching bump stop height to shock travel is the main trick to keep the ride sorted.