Parts for your 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero-Bump stops

1993 Mitsubishi Pajero bump-stops: what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 1993 Mitsubishi Pajero does use bump-stops. The Mitsubishi Pajero V20 Series factory service manual (1991–1999) details front suspension bump-stops on the upper control arm/torsion-bar setup and rear axle bump-stops for the coil-sprung live axle. Mitsubishi’s ASA electronic parts catalogue also lists front and rear bump-stop assemblies for this model year. So they’re absolutely relevant on a ’93 Pajero.

On this rig, bump-stops are the last line of defence at full compression. Up front, the upper control arm contacts a chassis-mounted rubber/urethane bump-stop to prevent metal-to-metal hits, protecting torsion bars, control arm pivots and CVs. Down the back, the rear axle meets frame-mounted bump-stops to shield coils, shocks and bodywork when loaded, towing or hammering corrugations. They also help keep tyres out of guards and keep travel predictable when the suspension runs out of room.

After three decades on Aussie and Kiwi roads and tracks, the original bump-stops are often perished, cracked or collapsed. If they’re missing or too soft, the Pajero can bottom out with a sharp thud, upset handling, and stress shocks and mounts. During routine servicing, it’s worth a quick look under the front guards and above the rear axle to check condition and clearance at normal ride height.

• Replace if you see splits, chunking, oil swelling, or they’re compressed to a stump.
• If you’ve fitted a lift or larger tyres, consider correctly sized bump-stops to protect CVs and prevent tyre rub.
• Front replacements are usually a simple unbolt-and-bolt-in job, rear units press or bolt to the frame. Support the vehicle safely and torque fasteners to workshop specs.
• After replacement, confirm the bump-stop just prevents harsh contact at full bump without stealing too much up-travel.

For touring and towing, checking bump-stops every 10,000–15,000 km (or each service) is cheap insurance. Fresh, correctly sized bump-stops keep the 1993 Pajero riding comfortably, protect expensive bits, and help the suspension do its best work on and off road.

Popular questions

Where are the bump-stops on a 1993 Pajero?
Up front, the bump-stop is mounted on the chassis and contacted by the upper control arm on full compression. At the rear, each side has a frame-mounted bump-stop positioned above the live axle. They’re easy to spot with the wheels turned (front) or looking above the axle tube (rear).

Do I need extended bump-stops with a suspension lift?
Often, yes. With a lift or bigger tyres, extended bump-stops can prevent CV bind up front and tyre-to-guard contact at the rear. The trick is choosing a length that protects components without stealing too much usable travel—match them to your spring/shock package.

Is it safe to drive without bump-stops?
Not wise. Without them, the suspension can smash into metal limits, damaging shocks, mounts, CVs and bodywork. It also feels harsh over hits and can knock the vehicle off line. If a bump-stop is missing or destroyed, replace it before the next big trip.