Perished rubber on ball joints

[Jeze2903]

Hi, I'm having a problem with the rubber perishing on all the ball joints on my car. I've bought the joints from a couple of different places and am now starting on my 3rd set!! To compound the problem, my car isn't on the road yet so all this has happened in my garage.
As far as I'm aware there is nothing in my, chemicals etc..that would cause this. There is a window, so had considered UV damage from daylight.

Has anyone experienced this problem, or have any ideas?

[shh120m]

iv noticed mine have formed small cracks, and they are brand new, iv just put a bit of silicone grease on them to try and keep the rubber moist.

[robo]

Its just they way motor factor parts are made these days, cheap indian rubber and crap quality parts built to a budget.Its all our fault because we cant help but shop about and buy the cheapest with scant regard for quality, which opens up the market for all this rubbish. I am guilty too. This would not happen to a genuine part.

Bob

[shh120m]

i agree, iv lost count of the amount of anti roll bar links iv replaced over the last few years. I dont learn tho, i still go to unipart because its so much cheaper. false economy but hey

[Jeze2903]

Thanks guys. I did think about putting silicone grease on the rubbers.
I'm a little stuck now as where to buy the next batch of joints from :(

[AnguS]

mine have gone the same, less than 12months since fitting.....

the ebay replacement rubbers seem ok though ?

[AshG]

mine are shot but the car has been on the road 2 years in jan. it wont affect the operation of the balljoint as our cars just dont do enough miles but it wont pass iva or mot like it. there is a chap at exeter show that sells replacement rubbers on their own, i plan on picking a set up when im there this year.

[robo]

Silicone has to be the answer, have found these so some one this side of the pond must do them.

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/1/1/536058--polyurethane-tie-rod-end-dust-boots-2-per-set-black-by-energy-suspension-part-9-13101g.html

Bob