Is your Acura Integra steering just a little on the loose side, or maybe it even feels like the rear is unstable? Worn rear suspension trailing arm bushings could be a valid reason. They can allow excessive movement in the rear suspension, adversely affecting handling, causing instability under braking, and perhaps even contributing to uneven tire wear. 

But don't worry! We've got you covered. This article will take you through all the detailed steps involved in installing new rear suspension trailing arm bushings on your Integra, restoring its precise handling and control. 

Why Should You Replace Your Rear Trailing Arm Bushings?

Before getting into installation, let's discuss the reason for this upgrade: 

Have you ever had the sensation of your car moving about unsteadily when you made that last corner? Or Have you noticed that the back side seemed to jump around when hitting a bump? These are all typical signs that the trailing arm bushings have gone bad.

According to Park Muffler, The trailing arm is the piece of the suspension system that connects the vehicle’s axle to its chassis. In addition to the trailing arm itself are the trailing arm bushings. These are rubber or polyurethane components that act as cushions and reduce friction between the suspension parts. In other words, the trailing arm bushings hold the trailing arms of your Integra to the chassis, allowing freedom of movement while keeping everything in alignment. As the factory rubber deteriorates over the years with heat and impacts from hard driving, it would be best to upgrade to polyurethane or spherical to improve stability, reduce unwanted movement, and ultimately maximize performance. 

If you are really into driving performance improvements, this is a must-have addition. Let's get started!

Tools and Parts You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools and parts:

Required Tools:

• Jack and Jack stands

• Socket wrench set

• Breaker bar

• Torque wrench

• Hammer and punch

• Ball joint separator or bushing press kit

• Drill and drill bits (optional for old bushing removal)

• Lubricant (silicone grease or WD-40)

• Safety glasses and gloves

Parts:

• New rear trailing arm bushings (OEM, poly, or spherical options)

• Anti-seize compound (best application if easier installation possible)

• Suspension grease for lubrication while using polyurethane bushing

Ready? Let’s get to work.

Step 1: Lift and Secure the Car

Safety first! Park your Integra on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels.

1. Use a jack to raise the rear of the car, then slide the jack stands under the rear subframe. 

2. Make sure that the vehicle is stable before proceeding. 

3. Remove the rear wheels for better access to the trailing arms.

Step 2: Remove the Rear Trailing Arm

1. Locate the rear trailing arm. This is the long arm that goes from the wheel hub toward the chassis. 

2. Using a socket wrench or hook bar, make it loose and remove those bolts securing the trailing arm with either the chassis or knuckle. 

3. Carefully lower and remove the trailing arm from the car.

Tip: If bolts are rusted or stubborn, apply penetrating oil and let it soak before attempting removal.

Step 3: Remove the Old Bushing

This is the most challenging part of the job; the factory bushing is pushed right into the trailing arm, and it can be pretty difficult to get it out.  

Option 1: Using a Bushing Press

• If you can access a hydraulic press or a bushing removal tool, use it to press the old bushing out.

Option 2: Drill and Hammer Method (DIY Approach)

1. Drill multiple holes into the rubber part of the old bushing to weaken it. 

2. Make use of a hammer and punch to push out the center sleeve. 

3. Cut the remaining rubber and tap out the outer shell with a carefully directed blow from a chisel or punch.

This method requires patience but gets the job done!

Step 4: Install the New Bushing

1. Apply a thin layer of anti-seize compound or lubricant to the hole in the trailing arm.

2.  If polyurethane bushings are being used, apply suspension grease to them before installation. Use a bushing press or a vice to press in the new bushing. 

3. Alternatively, if a press is unavailable, the bushing can be cautiously hammered into place using a wood block that will spread the load over a larger area.

4.  Ensure that the bushing sits against the large shoulder and is aligned.

Step 5: Reinstall the Rear Trailing Arm

1. Assemble the trailing arm in line with the chassis and the wheel knuckle. 

2. Use the original bolts to fasten it, but do not tighten it entirely yet. 

3. Bring the car into the ground at this point; this allows the suspension to be pre-loaded for accurate torque specification. 

4. All the bolts should be torque-wrenched to meet manufacturer specifications.

Step 6: Test Drive and Final Check

Before leaving the garage, check all bolts for tightness and ensure nothing is loose. Take your Integra for a test drive and feel it:

• Does the ride feel more stable?

• Is there an improvement in handling and brake performance?

• Were any strange noises or vibrations noted?

If it all feels okay, good job: you have successfully installed your new rear trailing arm bushings!

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Replace the bushes for spherical bearings; if you need your Integra for aggressive driving or track use, then it should specialize in even better handling.

• Check the installed bushings regularly to ensure they do not break down.

• When poly-bushings are installed, they may occasionally require re-greasing to eliminate squeaking.

• Consider upgrading all the other suspension components, too, such as control arms or such as coil-overs, as they help improve performance further.

It may seem intimidating to change the rear trailing arm bushings on the Acura Integra, but with the right tools and plenty of patience, it is a worthwhile upgrade. Not only does it stabilize the vehicle and improve handling, but it also increases driving confidence.

If you’re looking to upgrade your suspension further, consider checking out Blox Racing’s Lower Control Arms for even better handling performance.