This is not firearm related, but I figure this is where the experts hang out, so I am asking. I need some bushings made for a vintage jeep clutch linkage. Bascially, I have a torque tube. A metal stud goes into each end of the torque tube and the torque tube pivots on the studs. I want to put some plastic bushings inside the ends of the torque tube so the metal studs ride in the plastic bushings. (I'll have to machine a new, larger diameter torque tube.)

I was thinking Delrin AF (which has a teflon fibers impregnated into the Delrin). Is this the right choice or should I make the bushings out of something else?

Thanks,


Jordan

Delrin AD is an excellent bearing material if the loads are low. I take it your tube will pivot on large ball studs to allow it to move with the engine torque. UHMWPE or Nylon 6/6 is probably better for the impact loads and harsh environment.
The ultra high molecular weigh polyethylene is used for the bearing surfaces for human replacement knee and hip joints. Very tough and very inert.
I would probably use the nylon 6/6 since it is easier to find.

try mcmaster.com

Thanks gentlemen. I appreciate the expertise.

I Second Delrin AD, UHMWPE and Nylon 6/6
All good choices. Nylon being my choice with delrin being number two

I Junked that whole old jeep brake/clutch system off my '69 and but a '73 or later set up on it. Same with the steering

Yep, Acetal, Nylon, or UHMWPE. You can get any of it in bar stock form from plastic supply houses like Cadillac Plastics.

If this os a parade type of vehicle that only sees occasional, sunny use I suspect anything would work just fine. Personally, for this application I'd lean towards something like a sintered bronze bushing. My concern with a plastic bushing is you are going to be vulnerable to abrasion induced wear eventually. If you are bombing around in the sand with this you might only get one season of use, but as I said if this is a parade vehicle it would probably outlive you so just have that as something else to think about.

Jordan,
Call Cope plastics Inc, http://www.copeplastics.com/docs/locations.htm
They will be able to tell you exactly what you need. I order from them and they are extremely helpful.

Jordan call me I have some Delrin you can have. but i think what you need is Nylatron it is one of the most waer resistint plastics and I can give you some of it also #260-782-0735 ask for eric

Hard to beat VESPEL. Might be a little over the top though.

i would stick with uhmw or delrin.
i spent about 10 years in a plastics machine shop and uhmw would be my first choice.
uhmw is easy to machine as long as you pull the shaving.
delrin is easy to machine too and holds size better than just about any other plastic.
i wouldn't use nylatron because it will absorb moisture.