A rigid bearing assembly designed to achieve a low tolerance fit to an
imprecisely sized, misaligned, out-of-round or otherwise distorted
suspension member. Assembly is comprised of a rigid bearing enveloped
with a elastomer layer. The elastomer layer is disposed between the
bearing and suspension member. Upon insertion of the assembly into the
suspension member, the elastomer layer compresses slightly to absorb
irregularities and broad manufacturing tolerances in the suspension
member while insulating the rigid bearing from distortion. The rigid
bearing provides low-friction movement of suspension members about an
axis. The polymer layer is sufficiently hard to provide precise location
of suspension members under load. The ability to isolate the bearing from
irregularities enables lower cost of production of all components. This
same ability facilities easy retrofit of the invention to suspension
members originally designed for rubber bushings without need for custom
fitment or specialized tools.