The premature failure of Honda compliance bushings is often attributed to a combination of design, material quality, and operational conditions. Despite being essential to the suspension system, these bushings may not be designed to withstand the constant friction, stress, and heat that come with regular driving, particularly under harsh or severe road conditions. The material used, usually a type of rubber, may degrade faster due to exposure to heat, cold, road salts, and other corrosive substances. Furthermore, excessive vehicle load, frequent short trips, and aggressive driving can also speed up the wear and tear on these bushings, leading to their early failure.
The concept of the traction ball is simple: when the suspension does not have any sloppy movement (due to bushing flex) the suspension geometry will stay correct and significantly improve acceleration, braking and handling. Traction balls stop LCA deflection with the use of solid-mounted heim joints.
With Full-Race traction balls installed, the flex is gone and the LCA is rigid. The suspension is drastically improved as the steering is now very sensitive and a lot lighter. The durability of these traction balls is superior to the stock bushings and perfectly suited for both street and track use. This design is not uncomfortably harsh during driving and really an improvement in all regards. Full-Race Traction Balls are precision CNC machined in the USA from 100% billet stainless steel to provide a long service life and perfectly consistent press fit. Traction balls are securely locked in place with double retaining clips at both the inner and outer mounting surfaces.
Traction balls use spherical bearings which are tight tolerance bearings. They require periodic cleaning and lubrication particularly in wet and dusty climates. All spherical bearings will make some form of noise with use, but most times more frequent noises are associated with a dirty bearing. The best way to clean and lubricate the bearing is to first wipe off the top and bottom of the spherical bearings including the misalignment spacers. We recommend using a dry lube spray with teflon such as Tri-Flow or Lucas Oil "Tool Box Buddy". Simply spraying the top of the spherical bearings. Allow this to soak down into the bearing. We suggest moving the suspension slightly to allow the lubricant to fully penetrate. After about five minutes wipe the spherical bearings & spacers clean. You won't need to use much. Following these steps, your traction balls will last longer and stay quieter. Do not use harsh chemicals like brake cleaner to clean them as it will break down the teflon liner. Also don't use a grease or non-drying lubricant as this will collect and hold onto dirt and wear the spherical bearings faster.
Applications:
- (2001-2005) 7th gen Civic Coupe EM2, Sedan ES1 and EP3 Si hatchback
- (2006-2011) 8th gen Civic FG Coupe, FA Sedan
-
(2001-2005) DC5 RSX
