Questions and Answers

Chevy Monte Carlo Bushings Q. Vince, I hope you can help, so here goes. I have a slightly modified 1986 Chevy Monte Carlo SS. I dropped in a 350 pushing about 340 HP,380 Ft.Lbs @ 3800. Headers, Buick Grand National Rear End with 3:42's, new suspension, brakes, I'm sure you get the point. I have put on about 14,000 miles since the changes were made, and I am now at the body restoration part.

This is where I have become confused. I want to change all the body frame mount bushings since they are 17 years old and the stock Monte Carlo only had 180 HP. The only information I can find is on the Buick Grand Nationals. From what I understand the #3, #4, and #7 were left off on the assembly line on the GN and T-Type Buick's, I don't know if this was the case on all G-Bodies.

I have tried to count and I am getting conflicting numbers on how many upper and lower bushings I will need for my Monte Carlo. One GM guy said there was 10, I think it is more like 20. Also there is a #5 bushing that only came on the 1987 Buick GNX which is supposed to really enhance your suspension. I found a company that sells it. This bushing sits on the rear over the axle hump.

One last thing, 1986 and earlier Monte Carlos didn't come with rear seat frame braces. GM put these on later ones, Grand nationals and, get this, G-Body Grand Prix's only. These are supposed to strengthen your suspension and prevent the squeaks. I can get aftermarket ones. When I order these I want to have all the information so I don't have the frame off and have to re-order.

So My questions are: Will any G-body bushings work (Like Grand National, T-Type) or do I need the specific Monte Carlo SS ones? Can I use the GNX #5 bushing? I have heard the #1 bushings do not wear out so It is not always necessary to change them. Is this true? Is it true about the #3, #4, and #7 bushings missing? And if so can I get them? I think I'll need them. What do you think about the rear seat frame braces? Again GM doesn't know what I am talking about. Does GM still carry these parts?

You are my last chance, please help. I love all your info, you do a great job. I'm sorry for the long question, I'm at the last leg of my restoration.

Thanks,
Mike

A. Sorry to say but I have no idea on these questions. I would try to find all bushings available for a Monte Carlo SS. Never seen one without bushings in any frame mount area though. You should be able to get them from GM as long as the dealer is helping you out. If not, an aftermarket catalog company should be able to help you. As for the seat frame??? Never heard of it. Sorry.