Parts for your 1990 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1990 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes — what’s fitted and what matters

Based on Mitsubishi’s Pajero L040-series Workshop Manual (Group 37 – Steering) and common parts listings in Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 1990 Pajero uses a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, centre link and idler arm supported by replaceable bushes. There is no steering rack, so “rack bushes” don’t apply to this model. However, steering bushes are absolutely relevant on this Pajero — most notably the idler arm bushes, and a small bush/support at the lower steering column. General repair guides such as Haynes and Gregory’s for 1980s–90s Pajero/Montero also describe checking and replacing idler arm bushes as routine steering maintenance.

On a 1990 Mitsubishi Pajero, steering bushes play a quiet but crucial role. They support and cushion the idler arm and parts of the column so the steering linkages track straight without slop, vibration, or wandering. On- and off‑road, those bushes take a hammering from corrugations, mud, and big tyres, so keeping them in good nick stops shimmy, protects tyres from odd wear, and keeps the steering feel tidy.

When it’s time for servicing, a sensible checklist includes a proper free‑play inspection at the steering wheel, then watching the idler arm while a mate rocks the wheel. Any visible side‑to‑side movement at the idler arm pivot usually points to tired bushes. A test drive that reveals wandering, tramlining, a mid‑corner wobble, or a clunk over potholes is another giveaway.

• Rubber vs polyurethane: Rubber keeps an OE ride and isolates vibration nicely. Poly can sharpen steering feel and last longer, but it may pass a bit more road feel into the cabin. Either is fine if quality is good.
• Replacement tips: Support the lower control arm when jacking, mark link positions to preserve alignment, and torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height. If the idler arm has a grease nipple, give it a pump of quality chassis grease during each service.
• After the job: If you’ve disturbed the centre link or tie-rods, book a wheel alignment. Re-check fastener torque after a few hundred kilometres, especially if it’s seen dirt tracks.

Service intervals aren’t mileage-only: rough roads and heavier tyres accelerate wear. A quick steering check at every oil change keeps things honest. By sorting worn idler arm bushes early, the Pajero steers straight, the tyres wear evenly, and it’s far nicer to live with around town and out bush.

FAQs

Does a 1990 Pajero have steering rack bushes?
No. This model runs a recirculating-ball steering box, not a rack-and-pinion. The relevant bushes are in the idler arm (and a small column support), which do the job people often associate with “rack bushes” on other vehicles.

What are the signs the idler arm bushes are worn?
Excess free play at the wheel, steering wander, shimmy over bumps, knocks when parking, and uneven tyre wear. Watching the idler arm while someone nudges the wheel will often show the pivot shifting if the bushes are tired.

Should they go rubber or polyurethane?
Rubber keeps the classic Pajero ride and isolation. Poly can firm up the steering and last longer under harsh use, at the cost of slightly more road feel. For touring and mixed use, either works, quality and correct installation matter more than the material badge.