Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1998 Mitsubishi Pajero steering bushes — purpose, fitment and service tips

Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Pajero Factory Service Manual (1997–1999, Steering), the MMC ASA electronic parts catalogue for NK/NL series, and common workshop references (Gregory’s/Haynes) confirm that the 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero uses a recirculating-ball steering box with a pitman arm, centre/drag link and an idler arm. The idler arm contains replaceable bushes, and the steering column support also uses bushings. There’s no rack-and-pinion on this model, so there are no “rack bushes”, but steering bushes are absolutely relevant to the Pajero’s steering system.

On this Pajero, steering bushes keep the idler arm and related linkages located and moving smoothly, soaking up vibration and road shock while maintaining precise geometry. Good bushes mean a steadier wheel, better road feel and less wander, especially on corrugations. When they wear or perish, drivers notice free play at the wheel, clunks over bumps, a shimmy at speed, and uneven tyre wear.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the idler arm for vertical or side play, check the bush material for cracking or oil-soak, and make sure dust boots are intact. High‑kilometre driving, towing, larger tyres and off‑road work accelerate wear, so check more often if the vehicle sees rough tracks.

Replacement paths are straightforward. Many choose a complete idler arm assembly if the shaft or housing shows wear, otherwise, a bush kit does the trick. OE‑style rubber keeps the factory‑feel and best isolation. Quality polyurethane can sharpen steering and last longer, but may add a touch more feedback and needs correct greasing if specified by the manufacturer. Whichever way, fit bushes with the vehicle at normal ride height so they’re not pre‑loaded, and torque fasteners to spec from the workshop manual. After any steering work, a wheel alignment is recommended to protect tyres and restore straight‑ahead feel.

While you’re there, give the pitman arm, drag link and tie‑rod ends a proper once‑over. Any slop anywhere will mask the benefit of new bushes. If play is severe, park it up until repaired — flogged bushes can quickly lead to unsafe handling.

• Common symptoms of worn bushes: vague steering, knocks over bumps, steering shimmy, uneven tyre wear.
• Service tip: recheck fasteners after a few hundred kilometres, especially after rough-road trips.

FAQs

Does a 1998 Pajero have steering rack bushes?
No. This model uses a recirculating‑ball steering box, not rack‑and‑pinion. The relevant bushes are in the idler arm and the steering column support. Those bushes are serviceable and commonly replaced, especially on vehicles that see off‑road use.

Should I choose rubber or polyurethane bushes?
OE‑style rubber delivers factory comfort and isolation — great for touring and mixed driving. Polyurethane can sharpen response and often lasts longer, but may transmit a bit more kickback. For daily use and touring, quality rubber is a safe bet, for heavier tyres or performance focus, well‑made poly can be worthwhile.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing steering bushes?
Yes, it’s recommended. Even if toe wasn’t directly adjusted, small changes in linkage position can nudge alignment out. An alignment helps prevent uneven tyre wear and restores straight‑line stability.