Suspension Questions

[miatatomark]

I'm very pleased with the performance of my '98 base model. The air suspension is fantastic as far as cornering and absorbing bumps, probably one of the best rides I've experienced. But...I am experiencing "jitters", similar to body flex that I used to get in my convertibles, just busy little vibrations from every little stone/imperfection in the road telegraphed to the steering wheel. I'm guessing this is either caused by the strut/shock mount bushings or UCA/LCA bushings. I don't get the clunk that I associate with the smb's, no noises at all. I'm guessing that all existing suspension components are original (87k miles). The lower ball joints don't look to be in the best shape either, but don't think that would produce the problem I'm trying to address. Is this something that can be eliminated by replacing either/all of these?

Also, anyone tried the cheapo sets for $150 on ebay? My daily driver is still only driven about 5k miles a year, and the Mark will probably only get 2k. The fact that these sets come with ball joints and bushings installed make them very attractive. I've replaced all the front end components before on an MR2, and remember it not as a fun experience. I understand that they might not have the longevity of OEM parts, but I'm old and will die soon enough worrying about other things with more impact on the world.

 

[unity]

Old car with worn parts. Including the shock absorbers (air bags). So like you said, its probably just normal stuff and stiff rubber.

I would not get any set off Ebay. You can use lower control arms from a T-Bird, with ball joint, for cheap. Just make sure its TRW/Moog. Others have used some sets. Parts crack, fail and lower control arms have just bent for no reason. So while you may not plan on putting miles on the car, it may not even take many miles for the parts to fail.