Originally Posted By JohnRR
Originally Posted By Rapid340
I have found in general, rubber that is formulated or designed by Chinese companies is terrible. A very large reputable US manufacturer (like OEM or Dorman) will be good about making sure the correct rubber technology is in place even if made in china and I have had good experience using these.


You hit the nail on the head about rubber.

off topic ...

I replaced tie rod ends on my pickup in the fall , one was the lowest grade Napa part , the other a Duralast from Vatozone. The Napa boot split after a couple of months and yesterday I see the Duralast boot is all dry rotted ...

and what does a guy do for replacements ? almost all rubber components related to mechanical components are off shore junk. engine, transmission, suspension related "brand" names. check under the hood of your 90 up vehicle often for deteriorated rubber components. you may be [unpleasantly] surprised at the condition of hoses, boots, connections, etc.
beer