Parts for your 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1991 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes — what they do and when to replace them

For the 1991 Mitsubishi Pajero (NH-series launch year), steering bushes are relevant and used. Factory workshop manuals for the NH/NJ Pajero steering system and widely used AU/NZ aftermarket parts catalogues both confirm this model runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm and an idler arm on the opposite chassis rail. The idler arm contains serviceable bushes. There is no steering rack on this model, so “steering rack bushes” don’t apply, instead, the key bushings are in the idler arm (and, in some cases, the steering column coupler).

On this Pajero, steering bushes sit in the idler arm to support the centre/drag link and keep the steering geometry stable. They help damp vibration, reduce harshness through the wheel, and keep the front end tracking straight on corrugations and rough tracks. When they wear, the idler arm can deflect, which shows up as play at the wheel, wandering at highway speeds, and that tell-tale clunk over bumps.

• Common signs of worn bushes:
  • Free play or vagueness around centre
  • Shimmy or wobble on corrugations
  • Clunks when turning or braking
  • Uneven or rapid front tyre wear
  • Steering wheel kickback off-road

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the idler arm for vertical and lateral movement every 20,000 km, or sooner if the vehicle sees heavy off-road work, oversized tyres, or loads. Look for cracked or perished bush rubber, torn dust seals, and grease contamination. If the idler arm is greaseable, a quality chassis grease helps longevity, wipe away old grime so grit doesn’t work into the pivots.

• Service tips for a 1991 Pajero:
  • Check play with the front end raised, any noticeable idler arm movement means attention
  • Replace bushes as a kit, or swap the complete idler arm assembly if the pivot is worn
  • After bush replacement, get a professional wheel alignment (toe can shift)
  • Recheck tie-rod ends, pitman arm, and wheel bearings if play persists
  • Use rubber for OE-like comfort or polyurethane for a firmer, more responsive feel

Replacement is a straightforward job for a competent home mechanic with the right tools: support the vehicle safely, separate the centre link, remove the idler arm, press out the old bushes, and fit new ones with the correct orientation. Torque fasteners to spec from the workshop manual and road test on a smooth and then rough surface to confirm the steering tracks straight and feels tight without excess harshness.

Does a 1991 Pajero have steering rack bushes?

No. This model uses a recirculating-ball steering box, not a rack-and-pinion. That means no steering rack bushes. The relevant bushings are in the idler arm assembly (and sometimes the steering column coupler), which support the centre/drag link and keep the steering precise.

How often should steering bushes be replaced?

There’s no fixed interval, it depends on use. On-road touring might see them last well beyond 100,000 km. Frequent off-road work, heavy loads, or larger tyres can shorten that dramatically. Inspect them at each major service or every 20,000 km and replace when play, cracking, or clunks appear.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for a 1991 Pajero?

Rubber feels closest to factory and isolates noise and vibration better. Polyurethane is tougher and can sharpen steering response, which many 4WD owners like for towing or corrugations, but it may transmit a bit more road feel. Either can be a good choice when installed correctly and lubricated with the right grease.