When it was time to develop a Polybush kit for the Mk4 MX5 (ND) we looked to gain some vehicle knowledge from local specialist Paul Sheard Autos. Working with MX5s since their release in the late ’80s Paul Sheard Autos is THE name in MX5 racing, be that on the track or on the rally circuit
After talking with Paul and his team, we discovered that the hub bushes in the MK4 (ND) constantly failed during a race season and were also a point of concern for the road driver.
When we explored this option a little further we ascertained that the failing hub bushes were not available separately and could only be purchased as part of a new hub, a costly expense for the end user and indeed, the race driver!
With many Mk4s now out of warranty, this has meant many owners have been left facing some eye-watering costs – that’s why we have been working with our friends at Polybush to bring you a new long-lasting cost-effective solution. Manufactured to resolve bush failure, the new rear hub kit boasts a number of engineering advantages, including the use of different material hardness to give precise and controlled movement.
For Paul’s help in the development of the Polybush kit and his requirement for livery on his newly purchased MK4, we offered to develop a livery for the new season’s race car – Racing in the Club Sport Trophy and the MK4 Trophy Series as well as numerous other BRSCC Events and an exceptional amount of track days this ND will be thrashing around a track near you.
Frank truly is a stalwart of the off-road industry. A professional Land Rover journalist for the majority of his career he has now retired and turned his hand to writing for himself.
His blog, “My life with Land Rovers” is a compilation of stories and events that take part within the realms of the Land Rover scene, so it’s apt that he has written about the 2022 LRO show.
We’d ask anyone with an interest in Landy’s of all types to head over and have a read – HERE
We’re thrilled to announce that Polybush has been featured in the latest issue of Professional Motor Mechanic (PMM)magazine! The article dives into why polyurethane is the ultimate material for suspension bushes and how it outperforms rubber in terms of durability, performance, and longevity.
Whether you’re a mechanic, a car enthusiast, or simply someone who values a smoother, more responsive ride, this feature is a must-read. It explains why polyurethane’s unique properties make it the best choice for reducing wear, improving vehicle handling, and maintaining consistent performance over time.
You can read the full feature below and discover why more and more mechanics and drivers are making the switch to polyurethane bushes from Polybush.
Another LRO Show has passed and Polybush has completed another live demo!
Another year has passed and another big build was completed at the LRO Show Peterborough
Swapping a chassis on a 25-year-old Defender is hard, especially when you consider a two-day deadline, the weather, and completing it in front of a live audience in a field!
Owned by Peter (a design engineer for Polybush) and used as a proper workhorse around a farm just as it was intended by Land Rover!
Used by Peter for nearly 20 years, Red (The Defender) really does get worked, It’s now a classic and very original, so it doesn’t go green laning or drive through mud bogs.
However, the nature of its role does mean it needs to cross vast farmlands with gear in tow. As the Manic Mechanics have to move everything to a new Galvanised chassis, it made sense to also service the diffs, replace the brakes and install new suspension (up front, as the rears had recently been replaced) as well as install a new clutch since the engine and its gearbox etc had to be removed and refitted as part of the course this would of course take extra time and at the expense of potentially not driving the defender for parade lap, but ultimately, worth the extra stress.
The chassis swap itself sounds like a big task and it is! Disconnecting the wiring loom, brakes, draining fluid and and taking off the front clip took up the morning of day one, then it was all hands on deck to remove the body which required a little heat, WD40 and a lot of sweat and strain to take off.
Body Lifted
Body Removed
Old Chassis Removal
Removal of the body took approximately 10 people, as we were attempting this with limited space there was a lot of fanangling that required extra eyes, once this was removed, the body was taken outside and then the mammoth task of servicing the diffs, installing an entire new brake system, Polybushing the Defender then putting it all back together.
Land Rover originally specified 65a shore bushes for comfort and maximum articulation, so fitting a set of Comfort bushings that match that OE hardness will be in keeping with the vehicle in terms of ride and feel, but will also have the benefits associated with Polybush products.
Due to their material, Polybush does not age like rubber nor does it suffer from compression-set, which makes them perfect for off-roading or where suspension alignment is key as well as when vehicles will be laid-up for longer periods of time – Moreover, Polybush is also completely unaffected by oil and fuel which is perfect for incontinent classics who like the mark their territory. Polybush also require no special tools to install so anyone with a basic set of tools can install, even at the side of the road / trail, very handy when you’re in a field.
Without a vice or g-clamp to fit the bush a little coercion can be key
Once the suspension parts, diffs and brakes were installed on the new chassis, the team moved onto the clutch and flywheel replacement.
As Peter truly uses his Defender and the engine was out, it really was the perfect time to get this upgrade underway – still on it’s original clutch and the replacement took longer than hoped due to the nearly 25 year old bolts fighting hard to stay put, but as it is such a critical component the Manic Mechanics really dug in and pushed to get it done, all the while answering audience questions on the replacement.
Once the clutch, gearbox and transfer box were all back together the team stopped working on their individual jobs and came together to lift the drivetrain back into the new chassis then again to lift the body into its new home and bolt it all back together.
Drivetrain install
Refitting the body
The body itself went on the chassis fairly easily but due to the nature of a nice new straight chassis and a pre-loved body, some adjustment was required to align and adjust to fit.
Our team comprised of all ages
And multiple nations
The team worked extremely hard, especially during the last hours of the show so that the Defender was in a rollable condition for their parade lap around the Land Rover Owner International Show.
Managing to build a rolling chassis in 16 hours was a HUGE feat of planning, pateince and skill so we’d like to thank all of the Manic Mechanics especially Gary, as well as Sam Colman (our MC) for taking their time to work flat out over a weekend to help another Land Rover owner complete the almost impossible
Polybush is excited to be one of the sponsors of the LRO Show and once again team up with the Manic Mechanics to return a much-loved, 25-year-old working Defender back to its former glory.
The Defender has been owned for nearly 20 years by our design engineer Peter – So, very much ready for a bit of TLC.
The Manic Mechanics will be swapping out Peter’s old chassis, brakes, suspension and clutch, as well as installing a full set of Polybushes, so if you would like to pick up tips and tricks needed to work on your Land Rover, make sure to drop by the Polybush tent.
The main selling point of the Mazda MX5 was and is FUN, so when fuel, oil or just old age corrodes Exhaust Mount Bushes the fun can disappear quickly, and an early sign of failing bushes is exhaust knocks and rattles, the ultimate failure being an exhaust dragging on the floor!
STOP THAT RATTLE – Save your exhaust!
Our resident MX5 owner & Polybush employee, Ellis Blackman noted “I had a small oil leak which I didn’t do too much about initially, a few weeks later I had the car on jack stands and whilst I was investigating the source, I noticed some oil along the exhaust towards the bushes, upon closer inspection the bushes were cracked and stretched, one of the exhaust bushes had already snapped so it was inevitable that I was going to have a failure, I’m so glad my exhaust didn’t fall off when I was driving and that I could replace the parts at home”
27AU & 27AT Exhaust bushes
We have been selling exhaust bushes which fit the MK1 MX5 through MX5Parts for a long time, so a range expansion for the best selling sports car of all time seemed like a no brainer.
The new exhaust bushes we have created fit across a wide range of MX5 models ranging from the MK2 (NB) all the way through to the MK4. (ND) Not just reserved for upgraded exhaust systems/vehicles our bushes have been designed to be an OEM replacement but provide a longer-lasting bush that reduces flex in the exhaust system, as Polybush products remain unaffected by road contaminants, oil and fuel, you can keep driving without worry.
Mk2 & 2.5, 1998>2005 – Fitment Three on the rear box and one on the centre pipe 27AU
Mk3, 3.5 & 3.75 models, 2005>2015 – Fitment
There are two available sizes on the MK3 MX5. The right hand rear, left hand front and centre pipe rubbers are the smaller type 27AT and the right hand front and left hand rear are the larger type 27AU
Mk4 & RF, 2016> +124 Spider – Fitment
Four on the rear box only 27AU
Fitting on every model of MX5 from mk2 onward including the Fiat 124 spider, these exhaust bushes will outlast rubber and allow you to enjoy your car year-round.
VW Transporter Polybushes: The Ultimate Upgrade for Work or Leisure
At Polybush, we know that every VW Transporter owner has unique requirements—whether you use your van for work or for leisure. That’s why we’ve developed our VW Transporter Polybushes for every model, starting from the T25 and extending seamlessly through to the T5 and T6. Our aim? To deliver a product that satisfies both the comfort needs of leisure drivers and the durability demands of commercial users.
A Suspension Solution Tailored for All VW Transporter Owners
Creating a one-size-fits-all solution for such a versatile vehicle might seem challenging, but not for us. Leisure customers value a smooth, comfortable ride, while commercial operators prioritise longevity and cost-effectiveness. With our VW Transporter Polybushes, you get the best of both worlds—a product that:
Reduces Costs: Outlasts traditional rubber bushings by up to 4-5 times, saving you money on replacements.
Enhances Handling: Provides a more controlled suspension movement, leading to improved turn-in and stability around corners and on windy roads.
Boosts Safety: Offers more predictable handling whether your van is packed with tools or has been fully converted into a campervan.
Superior Suspension with Polybush Kits
Our Polybush kits have been engineered to significantly improve upon original equipment (O.E.) specifications. By replacing your standard rubber bushings with our VW Transporter Polybushes, you benefit from a far more controlled suspension system. The result is a smoother ride, enhanced road grip, and a reduction in the typical wear issues associated with oil, fuel, and road contaminants.
Introducing Kit 211 & Anti Roll Bar Bushes
Kit 211
Kit 211: Revolutionising Your Ride
Our Kit 211 is designed to offer the complete suspension upgrade for your VW Transporter. This kit ensures that every aspect of your suspension is enhanced, giving you a ride that’s as reliable on busy workdays as it is on leisurely getaways.
44EJ Anti Roll Bar Bushes
Stability is key, especially when cornering at speed or navigating uneven roads. Our 44EJ Anti Roll Bar Bushes are essential for reducing body roll by firmly linking the anti roll bar to the opposite wheels. This increased connection means that when you take a corner, your van’s wheels maintain better contact with the tarmac—boosting safety and grip.
44EJ – Anti Roll Bar Bush
Real-World Feedback from VW Transporter Owners
We didn’t just design these parts in isolation—we worked closely with real VW Transporter users during the development stage.
Mark, our casting foreman who uses his T5 as a family car, shared: “The van handles much better and is a lot less wallowy. It’s not harsh at all! We’ve particularly noticed the improved handling and comfort on twisty backroads. Plus, my tyres are lasting much longer, which really helps with costs.”
Polybush Fitted To Marks Transporter
Dave, a local plumber who relies on his van for work, remarked: “Using my van as a workhorse, reliability is paramount. Swapping to Polybush has transformed my ride. I didn’t think it could get any comfier, but it has! Even with a full bathroom set in the back, the van feels much more stable.”
Nearly a year after installation, the bushes still look and perform like new—a testament to the durability of our VW Transporter Polybushes.
Revolutionise Your VW Transporter Today
No matter whether your Transporter is used for business or transformed into a campervan, our Polybush kits are designed to revolutionise your ride by providing enhanced handling, improved comfort, and long-lasting durability.
1DU – Originally developed to combat front lower arm bush failures on Discovery 5 L462 and Range Rover Sport L494 & L405
Talking with Land Rover repair centres and owners, we discovered that the Front Lower Arm Bush was an item that constantly failed. This problematic bush was unavailable separately and had to be purchased as part of an arm, raising repair costs significantly, especially as bushes would fail at sub 30,000 miles.
Failures cause a knocking sound when accelerating & braking along with vague handling – A Polybush upgrade was something that the Land Rover market was begging for, being that the vehicles themselves are pinnacles of British luxury, when there’s a noise and there shouldn’t be, it can be very concerning.
During the development of the Front Lower Arm Bush we chatted with the owners of our development vehicles and noted that there was also an improvement to be made on other bushes within the suspension system, through careful research and analysis we have made significant upgrades over stock. Upgrading to Polybush Polyurethane bushings allows for a more controlled suspension movement, this allows your vehicle to keep its alignment through corners and over bumps, keeping the comfort this marque is known for. Fitment also reduces tyre costs and as our bushes last 4-5 times longer than the standard rubber, we offer a truly fit and forget solutution.
Unlike Rubber, Polybush products are unaffected by oil, fuel and road contaminants which provides safer and more predictable handling for worry-free motoring.
A better-fitting door bush helps your MX5 overcome rattles and become a more structural part of your car!
We at Polybush have taken on-board feedback from Mazda specialists and MX5 owners (Including our very own Ellis Blackman owner of the car photographed) to develop a door bush that is not only a structural upgrade but also in keeping with OEM looks.
27AS – MX5 Door Bush (All Years) Fitted to a MK1 MX5
Being a convertible, there is very little structure connecting the front and the back of the car, so during corners and when hitting bumps, the two halves of the vehicle can move relative to each other causing rattles in the door, doorcard, dash & other interior items, by swapping out the original rubber bushing to Polybush’s Door Bush, we can make the doors a more structural part of the vehicle – Increaseing torsional rigidity and the cars rigidity overall.
The original rubber part offered by Mazda was a soft rubber that wears away over time, futher opening the gap between the two peices, reducing rigidity and increasing vibration. Though originally a great part to isolate noise, vibration and harshness, it did not offer a lot of structure to the vehicle.
Installing the our Door Bush significantly reduces the long known flex within the door enclosure, as our bush fits snugly into the door cup it allows a connection between the body and the door – Reducing rattles whilst also increasing audio quality and offering a satisfying and less tinny door closure. Though still designed to work with OEM botls, our bushes do come with replacment bolts so it is very much a “bolt on” upgrade.
Manufacturing the bushes from Polyurethane rather than a material like Delrin allows for easier fitment as there is now no need to cut down or sand the bush to suit, simply unbolt your old bushes, install the Polybush upgrade, shut the door gently to self align the part, then tighten to spec.
Our bushes fit all marks and all years of Mazda MX5, to purchase yours – CLICK HERE
At Polybush we understand that unplanned downtime costs money.
According to data from the DVSA, 25% of vans will fail their first MOT test at three years, most commonly for issues with lighting, brakes, tyres and suspension systems!
Polybushes are designed to put up with the strain of heavy loads and uneven/rough terrain, typically lasting 4/5 times longer than OE bushes – keeping your vehicle off the ramp and on the road.
Our bushes are made to meet the challenges rubber parts can’t, Polybushes are not only unaffected by road contaminants, oil, fuel and UV, they actually prolong tyre life as our bushings help keep alignment significantly better than rubber counterparts. Our bushes are easily fitted and then simply forgotten about.
Working with companies all around the world, Polybushes are designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK.
So what are you waiting for, visit Stand 5G96.
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1DU – Originally developed to combat front lower arm bush failures on Discovery 5 L462 and Range Rover Sport L494 & L405
