Comparing Lippert Never-Fail Bushings to the Bronze Bushings and Wet Bolt Option for Tandem Axles

Updated 05/16/2024 | Published 05/02/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Replacement Shackle Strap for E-Z Flex Heavy Duty Rubber Suspension System by Dexter

(36)

$22.32

Spring-Eye Bolt with Locknut for Slipper Springs - 3-3/4" Long

(589)

$16.83

Shackle Bolt with Locknut for Double-Eye Springs - 3" Long

(978)

$9.26

Question:

Do you folks have any new info comparing these two bushings Never-Fail vs Bronze? I installed bronze a couple of years ago with HD shackles and wet bolts, but after our trip North last summer and ~1000mi of dirt/mud roads all the wet bolts got clogged with packed dirt, and a couple of the bronze bushings, HD shackles and bolts were well worn. Yes, it was a rough trip up to Alaska, Yukon, NWT. Im wondering if this time I should switch to Never-Fail bushings #LC279685 x 1 with thick, HD shackles and long bolts for my double axle trailer. And forget the hassles with greasing wet bolts as the bronze bushings dont seem to last that long. Maybe if you grease them every 500 mi or so, which I never did and never will ... If I do switch and as the Never-Fail bushings are 1 3/4inch long and HD shackles #018-024-01 x 8 are 1/2inch thick, each, what 9/16inch bolt length would I need? The unthreaded shank would need to be 2 3/4inch I guess, and an extra 1/2-3/4inch of threads? So 3 1/4-1/2inch total x 9/16? Maybe a 3 1/2inch x 9/16 #166079 x 8? For the hangers, a 3x9/16inch #166081 x 4 bolt looks right? Any advice appreciated.

asked by: Bruce L

Helpful Expert Reply:

The bronze bushings and wet bolts are a great option but they still do require maintenance especially under the conditions you referenced. There really isn't any new information in comparing it is basically the difference between maintenance required and zero maintenance.

The Never-Fail bushings # LC279685 are maintenance free and self-lubricating so they will be a better fit for you. This kit comes with the bushings for 4 springs and two equalizers for a complete tandem axle trailer. They have a lifetime warranty so if they ever get worn down even on your rough trip, you can swap them for new ones without replacement part cost.

Then you can use the Replacement Shackle Strap for E-Z Flex Heavy Duty Rubber Suspension System by Dexter Axle # 018-024-01 if desired and then bolts that are longer like the Spring-Eye Bolt with Locknut for Slipper Springs - 3-1/2" Long # 166079 you referenced. This will account for the extra length due to the shackle strap thickness to still give you the necessary threads. Then for your hangers a standard 3 inch bolt like # 166081 will work well. You are correct in the number of bolts and straps you need for a tandem axle trailer.

expert reply by: Jason S

Mike

4/25/2024

Hi Jason.... I am looking for the LC279685 bushing kit that you reference. I don't see it on your website. Do you stock and sell it? Thx

Jesse M.

5/16/2024

@Mike Hi Jason. Unfortunately we no longer carry the LC279685 kit that you mentioned. It looks like they are currently labeled as "no longer available" by the manufacturer