Omega Owners Forum

Omega Help Area => Omega General Help => Topic started by: Lizzie Zoom on 16 September 2018, 19:20:37

Title: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 16 September 2018, 19:20:37
I need to replace both my front wishbone bushes.  How hard is it to do please?

I have read somewhere it can be easier, and cheaper overall, to replace the wishbones complete with bushes already fitted.  Is that true?

Thanks ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 16 September 2018, 19:24:46
Which bushes have failed?

If just the front bushes, consider poly, then you never need to do them again.

If rears, and GM wishbones, I'd press genuine bushes in - far better than the major of pattern wishbones out there from a longevity point of view. Remember the most expensive part if the geometry setup afterwards.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 16 September 2018, 19:41:12
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 16 September 2018, 19:43:18
Which bushes have failed?

If
just the front bushes, consider poly, then you never need to do them again.

If rears, and GM wishbones, I'd press genuine bushes in - far better than the major of pattern wishbones out there from a longevity point of view. Remember the most expensive part if the geometry setup afterwards.

Thanks TB :y

That is an interesting question. The MOT advisory on the MOT Certificate only stated "suspension arm rubber bush deterioration but not resulting in excessive movement....." for both o/s and n/s front.

But I have been working on the document printed by the dealer giving a run down on the individual main testing points, and this states "wishbone front rubber deteriorating" for both n/s and o/s.

I have just noticed the difference and I am confused!!  My Vx dealer gave me a quote on the day based on replacing the wishbone bushes, but I am now left wondering  ::) ::)

Would there be a difference between the two discriptions please? ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 16 September 2018, 19:50:01
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?

Thanks. :y

 Not sure yet but, yes it is Protyre previouly Tyreweb, have quoted £180 but cannot supply poly bushes. The Vx dealer has quoted £231, with TC, with genuine parts.

But, if others confirm that it is straight forward to do the front bushes then I might go down that route. The question is do I want to be crawling around on the floor, when I could just let the professionals take the strain. :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 16 September 2018, 20:38:45
From my experience its probably simpler to get a new set of wishbones.Have the front bushes removed and poly,s fitted at around the £70 mark.Get the backs fitted with genuine GM or Lemforders from somewhere like AllGerman and then have completely new units fitted.Add the cost of the alignment in and you are looking at the rough side of £300 plus either the cost to have them fitted or a couple of hours crawling under the car .

The driving experience is transformed ,but if your mileage is low then maybe the cost doesn't justify replacing the entirety ...mine did so was prepared to pay and haven't regretted it albeith the shocks/springs droplinks and idler was done at the same time so an almost total front end rebuild.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 16 September 2018, 21:02:52
Jack it up and get a pry in. You'll soon see which bushes have failed.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 16 September 2018, 21:35:42
Jack it up and get a pry in. You'll soon see which bushes have failed.
Looking will soon tell you ::)

Changing the Fronts in situ will kill the rears as they will undoubtedly be the same age.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 16 September 2018, 23:37:32
Best method - source a pair of used GM wishbones, fit new Gm rear bushes (this requires a press to remove old / fit new), then remove the old front bushes using a drill and a hacksaw*, fit polybushes to replace front bushes. Then fit the wishbones to the car and have four wheel alignment done, to WIM spec.
Anything less than this is a compromise imo, unless you pay around £600 for a pair of new GM, if you can find them.

* Details of this method can be found somewhere on OOF. not sure exactly where though.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: LC0112G on 17 September 2018, 00:13:29
Best method - source a pair of used GM wishbones, fit new Gm rear bushes (this requires a press to remove old / fit new), then remove the old front bushes using a drill and a hacksaw*, fit polybushes to replace front bushes. Then fit the wishbones to the car and have four wheel alignment done, to WIM spec.
Anything less than this is a compromise imo, unless you pay around £600 for a pair of new GM, if you can find them.

* Details of this method can be found somewhere on OOF. not sure exactly where though.

Since you'll need a press to get the rear bush out and the new one back in again, you may as well use the same press to get the old front bush out too. Or at least try to.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Nick W on 17 September 2018, 06:59:41

Since you'll need a press to get the rear bush out and the new one back in again, you may as well use the same press to get the old front bush out too. Or at least try to.


pressing the rear bushes isn't a problem. But the size and shape of the wishbone requires a press with a very large frame - they don't fit in my 10 ton floor standing press. And like any press job you'll need suitable tools to drive the bush with and into.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 09:31:52
Jack it up and get a pry in. You'll soon see which bushes have failed.

I have and they all look as though they are deteriorating, just as the tester stated ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 09:35:17
Thanks for all your comments :-* :-* :y

I am off to get Vx to explain the different statements and may well just book her in for the work.  I am no longer so keen to crawl around under the car, but I am going to do my scheduled major service which normally I get Vx to do, but as they will do the job I don't really want to do.......................overall I will "save" money on the service which will help pay for the bushes ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: LC0112G on 17 September 2018, 12:19:44

Since you'll need a press to get the rear bush out and the new one back in again, you may as well use the same press to get the old front bush out too. Or at least try to.


pressing the rear bushes isn't a problem. But the size and shape of the wishbone requires a press with a very large frame - they don't fit in my 10 ton floor standing press. And like any press job you'll need suitable tools to drive the bush with and into.

I've got one of these :
(https://i.ebayimg.com/thumbs/images/g/yHkAAOSw6btXRtLM/s-l225.jpg)

The suspension arm is thin enough to go through the slot in the pressing girder bit, although yes you need suitably sized mandrels to press with/against. I have got one wishbone on the shelf where the front bush refuses to budge even with 20T on it though. I haven't admitted defeat yet though :-)

I think I agree with the other suggestions though. Buy a pair of cheep 'bones of eBay and fit them.  Once the old bones are off, assuming they are genuine GM get them stripped down, re-painted/powder coated and re-bushed using poly fronts and genuine GM rears. Then if/when the cheapo ones fail (might last a year or ten depending how you drive) swap your refurbed pairs back in again.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 17 September 2018, 12:37:35
When refurbishing, don't forget the ball joints...

Whilst it is feasible to renew them on the car, it is significantly more straightforward to drill the rivets out on a bench. :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 17 September 2018, 13:56:20
I was advised to leave them alone as VX ones don't tend to wear out. This was about a week after I had renewed them as part of refurbing the wishbones.  ;D
Only fly in the ointment for most people is removal / refitting the rear bushes. I had a press at work I could use, but a local engineering shop could do it for a few quid.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 16:21:25
Booked my car in with my Vx dealer for the wishbones complete to be replaced.  Like suggested by some, Vx now only supply the wishbones, from Germany, complete with all bushes, so that is the route I am taking.  Not cheap, even with TC, but then I should never have to have them done again! :y

At the same time the Vx dealer is replacing the cam, and all other belts, plus water pump.  They will then carryout out a major service.

Once more, not cheap, but I can then relax for another 4 years! :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: tunnie on 17 September 2018, 16:24:52
How can you apply trade club discount, if they are doing the work in house?  :-\

Also, for the cost you must be shelling out for that, I would suggest you take it to SOS Automotive and let Serek do the work.

Given Vauxhall dealers have never seen a V6 Omega for years, they won't have a clue when it comes to changing the cam belt. They will be pouring over the books to read up on how it's done, I'd give serious thought to cancelling that and take it to Serek.

You are paying a huge premium for a poor job.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 17 September 2018, 16:30:01
Lizzie has a friend who works at her local VX Dealers so expect they know her car by now
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 17 September 2018, 16:31:30
And her bank account details  ;D
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Diamond Black Geezer on 17 September 2018, 16:46:16
Just to dollop another seed of doubt into Lizzie's already well-soaked-in-doubt mind, even something like the wishbones need to be torqued up once on the ground, otherwise even the best quality front bushes will tear and fail in relatively short time.

I am not saying that your local Dealer, or indeed anyone else well-versed in Omega maintenance won't do this job to the correct standard... only saying that there are other folks out there who would at least do the same job for less pennies... or indeed a superior job for less pennies.

Just wanting you, as anyone, to be aware of all the facts before you go ahead with anything  :)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 17:12:27
How can you apply trade club discount, if they are doing the work in house?  :-\

Also, for the cost you must be shelling out for that, I would suggest you take it to SOS Automotive and let Serek do the work.

Given Vauxhall dealers have never seen a V6 Omega for years, they won't have a clue when it comes to changing the cam belt. They will be pouring over the books to read up on how it's done, I'd give serious thought to cancelling that and take it to Serek.

You are paying a huge premium for a poor job.

Because they take TC off the parts, then also the labour, which I have got another 10% off.

They have looked after my Omega's for years, with me just doing the servicing, so they have a good track record with me for all works, like the cam belt and even air conditioning systems, and that I can say after they honoured my claim after a new compressor gave out after just 2 years, paying back all the costs.

I know their General Manager well and I know they will look after me.  Yes, it is at a cost (£1,800, inc parts £947, all in), but I can afford it to keep my baby on the road for, hopefully years ahead; until I give up motoring, with full warranties covering all works.  I keep warm and comfortable whilst professions do all the work.  I have got to the age where I just need some peace, and not have the worry of arranging everything required to carryout this particular schedule of works.  It also means my service history on the miggy is kept bang up to date from new, and I have the receipts and garage stamps to prove it.


Yes, I know I am probably mad, but I love my very comfortable Omega and will pay to keep it running.  I looked at a brand new Insignia today, and enquired how much a full bloodied, big engined, well loaded one would cost me at the best discount I could get: £27,000 (and I reckon it would be more than that, but that is what the salesman said)!!!  Now what is going to be the depreciation on that per year, over the next 3-5  years, and after that time there would still be all the regular maintenance costs??!!

Instead I have a lovely Omega that cannot depreciate anymore, and my big outlay for all the major servicing scheduled works out at just £450 per year over 4 years.  I only do 4k miles per year, but I have a 'limousine' that does everything I want, whenever I want, and can take me to the ends of the earth if necessary! :D :D

That is my reasoning, but I DO appreciate your comments tunnie, and all the others from you great fellas, and I DO KNOW I am mad like some others on here! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 17:18:23
Lizzie has a friend who works at her local VX Dealers so expect they know her car by now

Yes indeed amba, the General Manager, and all in the garage know my car very well indeed. :D :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 17 September 2018, 17:19:02
When refurbishing, don't forget the ball joints...

Whilst it is feasible to renew them on the car, it is significantly more straightforward to drill the rivets out on a bench. :y
On GM wishbones, only worth doing if knackered.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Diamond Black Geezer on 17 September 2018, 17:21:37
"Instead I have a lovely Omega that cannot depreciate anymore, and my big outlay for all the major servicing scheduled works out at just £450 per year over 4 years.  I only do 4k miles per year, but I have a 'limousine' that does everything I want, whenever I want, and can take me to the ends of the earth if necessary! "


and that's a fine sentiment, and closely worded to what I (try to) tell work colleagues/neighbours.

And that's less money per month than most people pay in their korean plastic buckets.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 17 September 2018, 17:23:30
I use a chrisgixer when I need new bushes.  Keeps him out of mischief for an hour or 2 ;D


Which reminds me, I think my white van man avoidance tactics might have broken the Black Pussy, feels like a front bush.  Give him something to do whilst I scoff (Mrs CG does a mean breakfast) :)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 17 September 2018, 17:24:53
at just £450 per year
Blimey, a pair of rear tyres comes out more on my jalopy  :'(
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 17:30:16
at just £450 per year
Blimey, a pair of rear tyres comes out more on my jalopy  :'(

Yes, I pay £106 usually / currently per corner, but that is normal wear and tear, with my tyres (usually, baring punctures) lasting for over 5 years. :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 17 September 2018, 17:35:53
As said - drum it into them that they MUST torque the bolts up with the weight of the car on the front wheels. Otherwise, the bushes will tear apart in no time. Although, that would then be a good excuse to polybush the front of them. Due to the design, polybushes can be tightened with the wheels in the air.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: TheBoy on 17 September 2018, 17:35:56
at just £450 per year
Blimey, a pair of rear tyres comes out more on my jalopy  :'(

Yes, I pay £106 usually / currently per corner, but that is normal wear and tear, with my tyres (usually, baring punctures) lasting for over 5 years. :D ;)
They are only rated to 5yrs from manufacture, not fitting ;). Not the that is an issue for us on either car.  We both like a good, dependable tyre :)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 17 September 2018, 17:41:53
As said - drum it into them that they MUST torque the bolts up with the weight of the car on the front wheels. Otherwise, the bushes will tear apart in no time. Although, that would then be a good excuse to polybush the front of them. Due to the design, polybushes can be tightened with the wheels in the air.

Ok. Thanks! :-* :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: BazaJT on 17 September 2018, 19:52:23
Not long ago[as I've got to do the bottom arms-well one at least on the V70]I asked at a main dealer-not Volvo or Vauxhall-how they went about tightening the bolts with the weight on the wheels as they have mainly two post ramps and was told they don't bother they just "gun them up".So that's a job I'll be doing myself.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 18 September 2018, 00:16:16
Not long ago[as I've got to do the bottom arms-well one at least on the V70]I asked at a main dealer-not Volvo or Vauxhall-how they went about tightening the bolts with the weight on the wheels as they have mainly two post ramps and was told they don't bother they just "gun them up".So that's a job I'll be doing myself.
You sound surprised ::)

Dealers only get involved in EOL service items* if they are within warranty, ie when the car is still in its first couple of years.

* End Of Lease, ie anything that wears out between 80-120k miles... So suspension, exhaust, wheel bearings etc... And is a therefore not costed into lease maintenance plans to mislead fleet management.

This makes main dealers pretty lousy places for wear and tear repairs, especially on cars of this age where most main dealer techs are potentially as old as the car.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 18 September 2018, 09:01:29
Well fair play to you Lizzie...that's a fair investment into your car and I hope the work is carried out to your satisfaction.

Agree with comments about age of cars being worked on at Main Dealers by the Doctor and I cant imagine Caffyns have fitted many V6 Omega cambelt kits in the past few years so hope the man charged with the job knows his way around the engine,so I think I would be visiting the workshop during the repairs just to check they aren't using "tippex" and " mole grips " .
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 18 September 2018, 09:04:54
Serek will do it properly.

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 18 September 2018, 09:19:27
And considerably cheaper  :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Sir Tigger KC on 18 September 2018, 09:54:54
Keep the current set of wishbones Lizzie, so if the job needs doing again you can refurbish the original set rather than buying another new set.  ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 18 September 2018, 10:03:23
Sir Tig.

At Lizzies current mileage of 4k per year I think she will be viewing this work as a long term investment ,although an additional cost factor to the 1.8k spend is an alignment  :o
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 18 September 2018, 10:14:45
And then theres the minefield of finding a place to do it properly. The three I know of are WIM, Tyre smart in Witham and Nigel Langs in Bolton.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 18 September 2018, 10:28:43
Keep the current set of wishbones Lizzie, so when the job needs doing again you can refurbish the original set rather than buying another new set.  ;)
Fixed. It's an Omega, ergo, it will need doing again... A week later if they don't tighten the bolts with the weight of the car on the ground  :-X
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 18 September 2018, 11:08:28
Thanks guys for all your very useful comments and advice.  All taken on board and I will be monitoring/speaking to Caffyns about them :-* :-* :-* :D :y :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: terry paget on 18 September 2018, 11:51:08
Not long ago[as I've got to do the bottom arms-well one at least on the V70]I asked at a main dealer-not Volvo or Vauxhall-how they went about tightening the bolts with the weight on the wheels as they have mainly two post ramps and was told they don't bother they just gun them up".So that's a job I'll be doing myself.
I have a brute of a 3/4" air line impact wrench I bought to undo stubborn nuts, max. claimed torque 1000lb.ft. The adjuster knob is the same as on my 1/2" air gun, with 1 2 3 4 settings. I have witnessed tyre shops 'gun up' wheel nuts, and found them almost impossible to undo. Can some guns be preset to a certain torque, or are they all like mine?
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: aaronjb on 18 September 2018, 12:13:57
They're all like yours, Terry (in my experience) - the four settings are "tight", "tighter", "much tighter" and "you'll give yourself a hernia when you undo this" ;D

Torque sticks or torque limiting sockets should be used when doing up wheel nuts, then final tighten with a torque wrench. But no tyre shop charging pennies and paying their staff 50p an hour can afford the time needed to change the socket on the gun, find the torque wrench and look up the specs.. ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 18 September 2018, 15:40:57
I had to tell Kwik-Shit that my wheelnut torque setting was 110Nm! :o ::)

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: terry paget on 18 September 2018, 20:08:24
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?

Thanks. :y

 Not sure yet but, yes it is Protyre previouly Tyreweb, have quoted £180 but cannot supply poly bushes. The Vx dealer has quoted £231, with TC, with genuine parts.

But, if others confirm that it is straight forward to do the front bushes then I might go down that route. The question is do I want to be crawling around on the floor, when I could just let the professionals take the strain. :D ;)
It's only an advisory note, presumably on an MOT pass certificate. If it drives all right I should leave it until next year. A lot can happen to a 16 year old car in a year.
My Rover Streetwise has had advisories on drive shaft gaiters for the last three years, but it keeps passing MOTs. Some examiners feel obliged to pick a fault on every 16 year old car, lest people think they are not trying.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 10:48:07
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?

Thanks. :y

 Not sure yet but, yes it is Protyre previouly Tyreweb, have quoted £180 but cannot supply poly bushes. The Vx dealer has quoted £231, with TC, with genuine parts.

But, if others confirm that it is straight forward to do the front bushes then I might go down that route. The question is do I want to be crawling around on the floor, when I could just let the professionals take the strain. :D ;)
It's only an advisory note, presumably on an MOT pass certificate. If it drives all right I should leave it until next year. A lot can happen to a 16 year old car in a year.
My Rover Streetwise has had advisories on drive shaft gaiters for the last three years, but it keeps passing MOTs. Some examiners feel obliged to pick a fault on every 16 year old car, lest people think they are not trying.

Good advice Terry, thanks, but I believe in doing things today.

If I can I'd rather not leave it to that next MOT day and feel the shock of them failing the Omega with a huge estimate of what it will cost to put right.  I am a pro-active manager by training and that way I can plan and control what happens when, where and how. Decisions are not rushed but considered, with finance in place.

As for the bushes Terry, I have looked at them myself now and they do look very deteriorated and likely to require replacement with the next MOT.  Therefore they will need doing at some time, next year or the year after, so I would sooner fix all now with the major schedule of works I have planned.

To make some gulp on here, and to prove that I am mad, the overall cost as I stated previously will be £1,800 for the wishbones, cam belt, all belts, water pump and a major service.  But that comprises of £1,200 for parts (not what I said before) with TC, and £600 for labour with full discounts that I managed to get the dealer to agree to.  A lot of money yes, but I have given my reasons to justify that  previously.

Thanks again Terry for your advice  :-* :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: tunnie on 19 September 2018, 11:03:35
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?

Thanks. :y

 Not sure yet but, yes it is Protyre previouly Tyreweb, have quoted £180 but cannot supply poly bushes. The Vx dealer has quoted £231, with TC, with genuine parts.

But, if others confirm that it is straight forward to do the front bushes then I might go down that route. The question is do I want to be crawling around on the floor, when I could just let the professionals take the strain. :D ;)
It's only an advisory note, presumably on an MOT pass certificate. If it drives all right I should leave it until next year. A lot can happen to a 16 year old car in a year.
My Rover Streetwise has had advisories on drive shaft gaiters for the last three years, but it keeps passing MOTs. Some examiners feel obliged to pick a fault on every 16 year old car, lest people think they are not trying.

Good advice Terry, thanks, but I believe in doing things today.

If I can I'd rather not leave it to that next MOT day and feel the shock of them failing the Omega with a huge estimate of what it will cost to put right.  I am a pro-active manager by training and that way I can plan and control what happens when, where and how. Decisions are not rushed but considered, with finance in place.

As for the bushes Terry, I have looked at them myself now and they do look very deteriorated and likely to require replacement with the next MOT.  Therefore they will need doing at some time, next year or the year after, so I would sooner fix all now with the major schedule of works I have planned.

To make some gulp on here, and to prove that I am mad, the overall cost as I stated previously will be £1,800 for the wishbones, cam belt, all belts, water pump and a major service.  But that comprises of £1,200 for parts (not what I said before) with TC, and £600 for labour with full discounts that I managed to get the dealer to agree to.  A lot of money yes, but I have given my reasons to justify that  previously.

Thanks again Terry for your advice  :-* :y


 :o :o :o :o

You could get all those parts for a 1/4 of that price, all decent brands as well.

I bet Serek would charge you a 3rd of the labour as well.

He would do a far better job, especially on cam belt timing and wishbones.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: terry paget on 19 September 2018, 11:14:06
You're not really in Malta, are you?
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 19 September 2018, 11:49:12
Its Lizzies money,she is entitled to spend it as she feels fit to. ::)..and I do understand her logic with a fully stamped service book gives the car a nice authenticity and providence albeit I cant imagine she is doing it with the intention of recovering that cost if sold on
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 19 September 2018, 11:50:39
I think her residential status is more likely....Monaco
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 19 September 2018, 12:56:32
As tunnie said, go to see Serek; it will be worth the trivial amount you spend on petrol compared with what you save on having those jobs done for you - and they will be done to perfection. :y 8)

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: tunnie on 19 September 2018, 14:14:17
I understand the thought, getting dealer stamps given it's condition and using garage you trust.

But no one at that dealer probably have ever looked at a V6 cambelt, Serek would have done countless and will easily get it spot on. You are paying for someone to read TIS on a computer and do it for the first time I bet!

Take it to the dealer for a stamp and an oil change, but get serious work done by someone who knows these inside out.  :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 14:25:34
Its Lizzies money,she is entitled to spend it as she feels fit to. ::)..and I do understand her logic with a fully stamped service book gives the car a nice authenticity and providence albeit I cant imagine she is doing it with the intention of recovering that cost if sold on

Thanks amba, and no I will NEVER recoup all my costs on my Omega! ;D ;D ;D ;)

I never have done that with any car, and I doubt that many people have; you never do with cars.  BUT, the money I have spent on this Omega, including it's purchase, and including this last schedule of works, is still only 50% of it's original price from the sales forecourt.  I have now had this example 5 years, and, God willing, it will at least go on for another 5 years.  What car could you buy that is the equivalent to this top of the range, fully loaded, Omega that you could purchase and run for that outlay with the pleasure it gives me?  Even on the 5 year ownership I have had a cheap, but luxurious, motor car at a price far, far cheaper than a brand new Insignia would have cost me. ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 14:38:12
I understand the thought, getting dealer stamps given it's condition and using garage you trust.

But no one at that dealer probably have ever looked at a V6 cambelt, Serek would have done countless and will easily get it spot on. You are paying for someone to read TIS on a computer and do it for the first time I bet!

Take it to the dealer for a stamp and an oil change, but get serious work done by someone who knows these inside out.  :y

They have on my Omega's on 4 separate occasions, and I know they have worked on other V6 engines.  This is not some back street outfit, but a major Vx dealer that covers the South East of England, who have the experience working on thousands of cars.  Plus, as I stated before, they guarantee their work, and as I have found out once with them they will fully honour The Consumer Act 2015 even when it is the GM/VX part that is at fault. Any problems, and I know their General Manager will commercially look after me as a follow senior business manager as he has before.

The bottom line is that at 65 years of age I want things simple, with a major outfit maintaining my car to the best standards, which over the 12 years I have been using this particular Caffyn's, they have done, and not giving me any hassle overall.  If they blow up the engine, or wreck the transmission system, they will have to put it all right.  Can any on here who work on Omega's give that kind of guarantee, even though I am sure their work is excellent, but mistakes happen?  8) 8) 8) :y


Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 14:54:29
................I would also add that I have been using Vx main dealers for now 36 years, with many high mileage cars being maintained.  I have only had one problem with a new air conditioning compressor fitted by my current dealer, but that is all over all those years.

People can say what they like about the main dealers, or to some "stealers" , but I can only say what I find.  When it comes to spending my hard earned money I am very particular and keeping my Omega maintained to main dealer professional standards is crucial to me, and I have watched / learn't about the sad experiences of others who have used Kwik Fittup, or other, what I term as, back street 'mechanics', so I will go either to my main dealer for the work to be done or do it myself.  At 65 though the latter is far less appealing than it was, even though I have 48 years experience of car mechanics.

Just wanted to explain that a bit further than before to help anyone still interested to understand what seems like a "mad approach". :D :D :-* :-* ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 15:08:01
Poly fronts are about £70 a pair now and will last the cars life.I was sceptical when mine were fitted as thought it would be to severe but they work well and take the car where you point it .

Backs are around £20 but will either require some engineering with studding to remove and refit or a big press and a few quid in the garages coffee pot.

After fitting alignment is essential and should cost around £ 60/£70...place near MacDonalds off A2070 do it think they are called Tyre Pro or similar.

Doing it yourself then ?

Thanks. :y

 Not sure yet but, yes it is Protyre previouly Tyreweb, have quoted £180 but cannot supply poly bushes. The Vx dealer has quoted £231, with TC, with genuine parts.

But, if others confirm that it is straight forward to do the front bushes then I might go down that route. The question is do I want to be crawling around on the floor, when I could just let the professionals take the strain. :D ;)
It's only an advisory note, presumably on an MOT pass certificate. If it drives all right I should leave it until next year. A lot can happen to a 16 year old car in a year.
My Rover Streetwise has had advisories on drive shaft gaiters for the last three years, but it keeps passing MOTs. Some examiners feel obliged to pick a fault on every 16 year old car, lest people think they are not trying.

Good advice Terry, thanks, but I believe in doing things today.

If I can I'd rather not leave it to that next MOT day and feel the shock of them failing the Omega with a huge estimate of what it will cost to put right.  I am a pro-active manager by training and that way I can plan and control what happens when, where and how. Decisions are not rushed but considered, with finance in place.

As for the bushes Terry, I have looked at them myself now and they do look very deteriorated and likely to require replacement with the next MOT.  Therefore they will need doing at some time, next year or the year after, so I would sooner fix all now with the major schedule of works I have planned.

To make some gulp on here, and to prove that I am mad, the overall cost as I stated previously will be £1,800 for the wishbones, cam belt, all belts, water pump and a major service.  But that comprises of £1,200 for parts (not what I said before) with TC, and £600 for labour with full discounts that I managed to get the dealer to agree to.  A lot of money yes, but I have given my reasons to justify that  previously.

Thanks again Terry for your advice  :-* :y


 :o :o :o :o

You could get all those parts for a 1/4 of that price, all decent brands as well.

I bet Serek would charge you a 3rd of the labour as well.

He would do a far better job, especially on cam belt timing and wishbones.

Thanks Tunnie, I know you are trying to help me :-* :-* :-* :y

BUT, I have always fitted genuine parts to my Omega's (and other previously owned cars), and with me obtaining TC discounts I feel, even at £1,200, I am getting the best I can at a good price.  I certainly cannot see how I could get these genuine GM/Vx parts for just a quarter of that price. As it is the genuine GM complete wishbones are having to be flown in from Germany as, apparently, those particular ones are not in stock here in the UK.

They better be good mind you, and I WILL be making sure the Vx technician fitting them is briefed by me on torquing them up correctly!! :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 15:10:08
You're not really in Malta, are you?

............ahhh, that is THE secret.  I am there when I want to be!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 19 September 2018, 15:14:04
You're not really in Malta, are you?

............ahhh, that is THE secret.  I am there when I want to be!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
If by Malta, you mean the international lorry park between Maidstone and Dover, then all is well ;D
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 19 September 2018, 15:15:18
No use hiding your car from me, Lizzie - I will find you: but not until you have had that work done, so you are safe until then.....

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: tunnie on 19 September 2018, 15:15:27
Fair enough, but still think Serek would be better choice  :)



I rang my local main dealer Vauxhall, Eden of Camberley, to enquire on fault check on my wife's Zafira Tourer.

They wanted £75 just for just for a code read, I said I would think about it.

I then bought a full proper Vauxhall specific code reader, not just a generic one for £150. 2 code reads and I am quids in.  :)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: dave the builder on 19 September 2018, 16:09:44
The forum software does not have a 'men to women logic translator' people   ;)

Good luck with the work your having done Lizzie  :)

Spend your money as you see fit

do what makes yourself happy and then at least someone is happy  ;D

will you be having a tracker? or 24 hour security guard  :-\  (when not in Malta)






Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 16:28:07
No use hiding your car from me, Lizzie - I will find you: but not until you have had that work done, so you are safe until then.....

Ron.

 ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 16:28:56
You're not really in Malta, are you?

............ahhh, that is THE secret.  I am there when I want to be!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;)
If by Malta, you mean the international lorry park between Maidstone and Dover, then all is well ;D

Close, but for Ron Malta means Malta! ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 16:31:56
Fair enough, but still think Serek would be better choice  :)



I rang my local main dealer Vauxhall, Eden of Camberley, to enquire on fault check on my wife's Zafira Tourer.

They wanted £75 just for just for a code read, I said I would think about it.

I then bought a full proper Vauxhall specific code reader, not just a generic one for £150. 2 code reads and I am quids in.  :)

Oh, I know tunnie they can be expensive. ::) ::)

Even my friendly dealer wanted £200+ just to look at my apparently "oscillating" brakes!!   Even I said "NO!" and did the job myself with the right results; NO expense! :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 16:33:58
The forum software does not have a 'men to women logic translator' people   ;)

Good luck with the work your having done Lizzie  :)

Spend your money as you see fit

do what makes yourself happy and then at least someone is happy  ;D

will you be having a tracker? or 24 hour security guard  :-\  (when not in Malta)

Thanks Dave!! :-* ;)

Oh yes, the tracker has been fitted! 8) ;D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 19 September 2018, 16:59:45
Book it in with Serek to supply and fit theparts: I will be onl;y too happy to collect it for you when he has finished.....save you the trouble?

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 17:58:22
Book it in with Serek to supply and fit theparts: I will be onl;y too happy to collect it for you when he has finished.....save you the trouble?

Ron.

Yeah, right Ron! ::) ::) :o :o ;D ;D ;D :-* ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: BazaJT on 19 September 2018, 18:41:46
You've got to give him 10/10 for trying though Lizzie ;D
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 19:30:24
You've got to give him 10/10 for trying though Lizzie ;D

Indeed Baza! ;D ;D :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: dave the builder on 19 September 2018, 19:43:20
plus, Huntingdon to malta is 2000 miles
@ 25mpg = 80 gallon =£500 UK prices
then you'd need your bus fare home Ron  :-\
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 19 September 2018, 19:47:07
plus, Huntingdon to malta is 2000 miles
@ 25mpg = 80 gallon =£500 UK prices
then you'd need your bus fare home Ron  :-\

 ;D :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 19 September 2018, 20:48:01
But what if it breaks down in Witham on its way to Malta? I would need to look after it for Lizzie..... :y

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: dave the builder on 19 September 2018, 20:56:56
But what if it breaks down in Witham on its way to Malta? I would need to look after it for Lizzie..... :y

Ron.
If it did "Break down" after service at SOS  :o ,I'd suspect foul play on your part  ::)
should be good for 5k easy with just fuel  :y
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Bigron on 19 September 2018, 21:10:11
Oh bugger, Dave - you may have sussed my cunning plan! :-[

Ron.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 22 September 2018, 18:45:10
Does anyone on here use Mister Auto online parts?

If so what are they like please? ???
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: amba on 22 September 2018, 19:01:35
Yes I used them for an alternator about 8 months ago as was the best price I could find for a genuine Bosch 120 amp.

Service was fine with tracking number and delivery when advised .Came direct from Germany and the return surcharge was credited back as they promised .

Reliable and good price for what I ordered .

Found some bones then ??
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: neil74 on 22 September 2018, 20:04:54
The nearside one on mine needs doing again judging by the clicking noise it makes. and more than likely caused by the Asian driver HA HA ramming me onto the pavement some weeks back and driving away..and stuffing the drivers wing in and damaging something on the offside too as the tyre now squeals even when i drive around corners slowly..
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 22 September 2018, 20:32:10
The nearside one on mine needs doing again judging by the clicking noise it makes. and more than likely caused by the Asian driver HA HA ramming me onto the pavement some weeks back and driving away..and stuffing the drivers wing in and damaging something on the offside too as the tyre now squeals even when i drive around corners slowly..
You seriously need to get your alignment sorted... Tyres last as little as two days if it's that bad.
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 23 September 2018, 13:01:16
Yes I used them for an alternator about 8 months ago as was the best price I could find for a genuine Bosch 120 amp.

Service was fine with tracking number and delivery when advised .Came direct from Germany and the return surcharge was credited back as they promised .

Reliable and good price for what I ordered .

Found some bones then ??

Thanks amba! :-* :y

Yes, they have them for £340 all in. :D ;)
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: serek on 25 September 2018, 22:19:49
So I recived pm other day about quotation on LZ omega jobs
I really should read this topic first before pricing job  ;D  8) :D

I'm not supriced people scrap thier omegas paying that sort of prices
Title: Re: Front wishbone bush replacement
Post by: Lizzie Zoom on 25 September 2018, 22:37:58
So I recived pm other day about quotation on LZ omega jobs
I really should read this topic first before pricing job  ;D  8) :D

I'm not supriced people scrap thier omegas paying that sort of prices

Yes Serek, it certainly has got me thinking and no doubt is one reason why those who are not the the OOF, or do not know where to start to organise what is necessary to keep miggies on the road, do give up on them for scrap!!! :o :D ;)