Parts for your 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1995 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes: what they are and how to look after them

Based on the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1991–1999 Workshop Manual (Group 37A: Steering), the 1995 Pajero uses a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, centre/drag link and an idler arm. The idler arm pivots on serviceable bushes. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue lists the idler arm bushes for NH/NJ/NK chassis codes, and aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane) offer specific idler arm bush kits for 1991–1999 Pajero models. So, steering bushes are absolutely relevant on the 1995 Pajero—specifically as idler arm bushes, not rack mounts.

What do they do? The idler arm bushes keep the centre link tracking straight and true, absorb vibration from corrugations and potholes, and stop the steering wheel from feeling twitchy. When they’re tired, the Pajero can wander on the highway, shimmy on bumps and clunk when you swing the wheel at low speed.

Servicing is straightforward. At each service—or at least every 20,000 kilometres—check for play at the idler arm by rocking the centre link up and down while the vehicle’s safely supported. Look for cracked or oil-soaked rubber and any metal-to-metal contact. Off-road work, heavy tyres and corrugated roads will accelerate wear, so give them a closer look after big trips.

• Typical symptoms: vague steering, kickback through the wheel, clunks over bumps, uneven tyre wear.
• Replacement options: OEM-style rubber bushes for comfort, or polyurethane bushes for sharper feel and durability.
• Related checks: inspect the idler arm shaft, pitman arm, tie-rod ends and steering damper at the same time.

Replacing the bushes isn’t a drama for a competent home mechanic: support the front end securely, remove split pins and nuts, separate the centre link from the idler arm, unbolt the idler bracket, press out the old bushes, and press in the new ones using the supplied grease if polyurethane. Refit and torque fasteners to the specs in the Mitsubishi workshop manual, then recheck free play at the wheel. An alignment check is wise afterwards, especially if other steering parts were disturbed.

If the idler arm shaft or housing is worn, swap the whole idler arm assembly rather than just the bushes. And don’t be caught out by listings for “rack bushes”—this Pajero doesn’t run a rack-and-pinion system, so those aren’t used here.

Technical references: Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero 1991–1999 Workshop Manual (Group 37A: Steering), Mitsubishi ASA Global EPC (idler arm and bush listings for NH/NJ/NK), Gregory’s and Haynes manuals for Montero/Pajero Gen 2, aftermarket catalogues noting idler arm bush kits for 1991–1999 Pajero.

Popular questions

Which steering bushes are on a 1995 Pajero?
The 1995 Pajero runs idler arm bushes as part of its recirculating-ball steering linkage. OE bushes are rubber, polyurethane kits are available for tougher service. Exact part numbers depend on chassis code (NH/NJ/NK) and market, so match by VIN or EPC.

How often should Pajero steering bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval. Inspect at every service and after hard off-road use. Many last well past 100,000 km on-road, but corrugations, big tyres and extra weight can bring replacement forward. Replace when there’s play, cracking, or a noticeable clunk or wander.

Will worn steering bushes fail a WOF or roadworthy?
Yes. Excessive play at the idler arm is a safety defect. Testers will pick up free play, noise or misalignment. If there’s movement at the idler pivot or the bush is perished, it’s due for replacement to keep it safe and legal.