Parts for your 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero-Steering bushes

1999 Mitsubishi Pajero Steering Bushes

Based on technical references—Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Workshop Manuals (1999 NM/NP chassis steering section), the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue, and major aftermarket catalogues from SuperPro and Nolathane—the 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero does use steering bushes. Depending on market and exact build, a 1999 Pajero may be the last of the Gen 2 (NL) with a recirculating-ball steering box and idler arm bushes, or the early Gen 3 (NM) with a rack-and-pinion that’s mounted to the crossmember via rack bushes. Either way, steering bushes are fitted and serviceable items.

On this model, steering bushes are there to keep the steering gear securely located while isolating vibration and road harshness. They prevent the steering rack (NM) or steering box/idler assembly (NL) from shifting under load, which maintains alignment between the steering wheel and the front wheels. Good bushes mean a tighter on-centre feel, less kickback on corrugations, and better tyre life.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth inspecting the steering bushes every 20,000 km or yearly—more often if the Pajero tackles gravel, towing, or beach work. Look for cracked, perished, oil-soaked rubber, or obvious movement when the steering is quickly rocked left-right with the engine running. On NM/NP, watch the rack mounts for any lift or fore–aft shuffle. On NL, check idler arm play, excessive up–down movement usually points to tired bushes or the idler itself.

• Common signs they’re due: vague steering or wander, clunks over small bumps, uneven or rapid tyre wear, and a steering wheel that won’t settle after a turn.
• Replacement tips: use quality rubber for OE ride or polyurethane for sharper response and durability. Torque all fasteners at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the bushes. Always book a wheel alignment afterwards.
• Harsh conditions: creek crossings, mud, and hot summers can accelerate bush degradation, rinsing off salt and grit helps a lot.

Time-wise, a competent tech can usually swap rack or idler arm bushes within a couple of hours, depending on access and corrosion. Technical sources above list dedicated bush kits for both NL (idler arm bushes) and NM/NP (rack-mount bushes), so parts availability is solid across Australia and New Zealand.

What symptoms point to worn steering bushes on a 1999 Pajero?

Expect a looser, less precise steering feel, clunks over potholes, shimmy on corrugations, or the vehicle tracking with road camber. You might also see uneven tyre wear even after a recent alignment. If you or a tech can see the rack or idler arm moving relative to its mounts while the wheel is rocked, the bushes are likely done.

Are rack bushes and idler arm bushes the same on a 1999 Pajero?

No. Early 1999 Gen 2 (NL) uses a steering box with an idler arm, so its service bushes are at the idler (and sometimes box mounts). Late 1999 Gen 3 (NM) uses a rack-and-pinion with dedicated rack-mount bushes. Parts aren’t interchangeable, so confirming VIN/build date before ordering is the go.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s better for Aussie and Kiwi conditions?

Rubber keeps the OE ride and isolation, great for daily use and touring. Polyurethane sharpens response and typically lasts longer under off-road loads, but can transmit a touch more feel. For mixed on-road/off-road use, many owners pick poly for the rack or idler and stick with rubber elsewhere to balance comfort and control.