A friend was telling me that he tried silicone spray on bushings and boots. That it makes it more supple. Does this actually work? Or does it cause more harm?
Well this is gonna make a huge discussion! All silicone oils are not the same. Each are still a complex hydrocarbon molecule (as far as I know). Hydrocarbons are what soften rubber. A correct amount of a hydrocarbon can soften the rubber and extend it's life. But too much and the rubber disintegrates.
There are specific products for this that are engineered to apply the correct amount and TYPE of hydrocarbon to get the sweat spot (make it last).
You'll be better served long-term by replacing them, imo.
Not hydrocarbon. It’s a silicon chain molecule
I stand corrected, not technically a hydrocabon...
C6H18OSi2
siloxane.
Yep, one of many siloxane molecules.
I don’t think it’s worth it.
What about AT205? I know Scotty recommends it for some things, but would it work for bushings and boots?
Think about it. Does it make sense to spend your money on cans of chemical, and spend your time crawling around and spraying, rather than replace a $20 bushing every several years? I really don't think these sprays do anything significant unless you live in really ho,t dry climates anyway.
I will use it on expensive cosmetic parts like weatherstrip. But not mechanical things.
I agree with mr. mountainmanjoe. I would just fix it, replace the bushing, and not worry about it again for several years.
