Lubricating Bronze Bushings
Mark Simpson
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Description
If the doors on your classic car are sagging and you’re lifting up on the handle just to get them closed, odds are you need to replace the bushings in your door hinges. Lubricating replacement bronze bushings in classic car door hinges is essential to ensure smooth operation and longevity.
Mark Simpson shares a great tip taught to him years ago on how to get deep oil penetration into bronze bushings. But even he admits getting deep oil penetration into the bushing is just the start to installing new bushings.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly installing classic car hinge bushings and properly lubricating them:
Tools & Materials Needed
– New bronze bushings
– High-quality grease (lithium-based, synthetic, or graphite-based)
– High-quality machine oil
– Small brush or applicator
– Clean rag
– Hammer & punch (for installation if needed)
Installation & Lubrication Process
Clean the Hinge Components
– Before installing the new bushings, thoroughly clean the hinge pins and housing to remove any old grease, dirt, or rust.
– Use a degreaser and a wire brush if necessary.
Pre-Lubricate the Bushings
– Lightly coat the inner and outer surfaces of the bronze bushings with grease before installation. This helps reduce friction during the fitting process.
– Some prefer soaking the bushings in oil for a few hours to allow lubrication to penetrate the porous material.
Install the Bushings
– Press the bushings into place using a vise, clamp, or hammer with a suitable driver to avoid damaging them.
– Ensure they seat properly and align with the hinge pin.
Apply Additional Grease
– Once the bushings are installed, generously apply grease to the inner bore where the hinge pin will sit.
– A small brush or applicator can help spread the grease evenly.
Insert the Hinge Pin
– Slide the hinge pin into place while rotating slightly to ensure proper grease distribution.
– If the hinge has a grease fitting (zerk), apply additional grease using a grease gun until it starts to seep from the bushing edges.
Final Check & Operation
– Move the hinge back and forth to work the lubricant in and check for any binding.
– Wipe away any excess grease to keep the area clean.
– Proper lubrication will keep the door hinges moving smoothly and prevent premature wear. For long-term maintenance, reapply grease periodically, especially if exposed to moisture or extreme conditions.
Here's a quick tip there. Good buddy, Terry Wright shared with us, you know, over the years he's rebuilt the door hinges on lots of cars and replaced these bronze bushings that notoriously wear out on, on big old two door cars. But as this neighbor of his showed him years ago, he says it's important to oil these but don't just like squirt oil on them. Rather get that oil impregnated throughout the bronze bushing. And the way Terry shows that you fill the pushing up, then you squeeze it down and you can actually see the oil passing through the pores of the bronze bushing.
Now, this bushing is permanently oiled and lubricated. So it's not just a surface lubrication, it's throughout.
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