Parts for your 1992 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1992 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes: what they do and when to replace them

For the 1992 Mitsubishi Pajero (Gen 2, NH/NJ), steering bushes are absolutely relevant and fitted. This model runs a recirculating-ball steering box with a centre link, pitman arm and an idler arm — and that idler arm pivots on bushes that wear with use. This setup is described in the Mitsubishi Pajero NH–NL Factory Service Manual (Group 37: Steering) and shown in Mitsubishi’s ASA/EPC parts listings as serviceable idler arm bush components for NH/NJ vehicles. Aftermarket technical catalogues from brands like Nolathane and SuperPro also list idler arm bush kits specifically for 1991–1999 Pajero models, further confirming their fitment and service role.

The steering bushes on a ’92 Pajero mainly live in the idler arm. Their job is to support the idler’s pivot, keep the centre link at the correct height and reduce harshness and shimmy transmitted back through the wheel. On-road and off-road punishment, oil contamination and age can cause the rubber to perish or oval out, leading to vague steering, wandering, clunks over corrugations and uneven tyre wear.

Because this Pajero uses a steering box (not rack-and-pinion), there are no rack-mount bushes to worry about. The smart play is to inspect the idler arm bushes at regular service intervals — every 20,000 km is a good rule of thumb in Australia and New Zealand, and sooner after heavy off-road trips. With the front end safely raised, have a helper rock the steering at the 3-and-9 o’clock position while watching the idler. Excess movement at the pivot is a giveaway the bushes are done. Also check for a bent centre link and play at the tie-rod ends and pitman arm while you’re there.

Replacement is straightforward: choose OEM-style rubber for comfort and isolation, or polyurethane for durability and a crisper on-centre feel (with a touch more road texture). Press the new bushes in square, torque fasteners at normal ride height, and if your idler arm is worn or the pivot is flogged out, swap the complete assembly. Some aftermarket idlers are greasable — if so, use a quality chassis grease at each service. Finish with a wheel alignment and recheck fasteners after 500 km.

• Inspect bushes every 20,000 km, or after harsh off-road use
• Look for wandering, clunks and uneven tyre wear
• Rubber = comfort, polyurethane = longevity and sharper feel
• Torque at ride height and get a post-job alignment

FAQs

Does a 1992 Mitsubishi Pajero have steering rack bushes?
No. It uses a recirculating-ball steering box with a centre link, pitman arm and an idler arm. The relevant bushes are in the idler arm (and, on some vehicles, a small bush/coupler in the steering column joint), not rack mounts.

How often should idler arm bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval — condition and use matter most. Many see 60,000–100,000 km on mostly sealed roads. Regular corrugations or larger tyres can shorten that to 20,000–40,000 km. If there’s play, wandering, or a knock over bumps, it’s time.

Are polyurethane bushes too harsh for a daily-driven Pajero?
Poly bushes do sharpen steering and can pass a bit more road feel through the wheel, but most owners find them fine for daily use. If comfort is the top priority, stick with OEM-style rubber, for longevity and crisper response, polyurethane is a solid choice.