Why bushing selection matters
Bushings guide the moving parts of the mold — the leader pins that align the halves, and the ejector system that pushes the part out. A bushing that is the wrong size, the wrong material, or poorly finished causes binding, galling, and premature wear that shows up as inconsistent parts and extra maintenance.
Bushing types
- Leader bushings: The mating half of the leader pin set. They guide the pin as the mold closes and keep the halves aligned.
- Shoulder bushings: A shouldered design that seats positively in the plate, used where the bushing must carry load or locate precisely.
- Guided ejector bushings: Guide the ejector pins or ejector system as it travels, keeping the pins straight and reducing wear on the pin and the plate.
Materials and finish
- Case-hardened steel: Hard, wear-resistant surface over a tough core — the standard for leader and shoulder bushings.
- Bronze or oil-impregnated: For applications where lubrication is limited and low friction matters.
- Black nitride: Adds surface hardness and lubricity for greaseless or high-wear applications.
PCS and Progressive options
PCS Company offers F.I.T.S. shoulder bushings that match their F.I.T.S. leader pins, plus guided ejector bushings for the ejector system. Progressive Components offers off-the-shelf leader pins, bushings, and guided ejector bushings, including black nitride options for greaseless applications. Both brands are available through Tooling Components.
Sizing checklist
- Measure the pin diameter the bushing must guide.
- Confirm the bushing OD and length fit the plate bore.
- Match the bushing to its mating pin — they are designed as a set.
- For guided ejector bushings, confirm the ejector pin diameter and travel.
Catalog item plug: Tooling Components sells mold bushings from PCS and Progressive Components — leader, shoulder, and guided ejector bushings sized to your pin and plate. Call (814) 438-7657 or email sales@toolingcomponent.com for same-day pricing.