Machine Bushings & Spacers

Machine bushings and spacers help you control clearances, align parts, and fine‑tune assemblies without machining new components. These simple rings and sleeves slide over a bolt or shaft to take up slack, set stand‑off height, prevent binding, and spread loads for smoother operation. Use them in automotive repairs, fabrication, robotics, conveyors, woodworking jigs, and general MRO where tight tolerances and repeatable setups matter.

You’ll find options in steel, stainless steel, brass, aluminum, nylon, and PTFE to match strength, corrosion resistance, weight, and friction needs. Precision‑ground bushings offer tight ID/OD tolerances for accurate fits; plated or coated finishes fight rust in humid or outdoor environments. Choose from standard and metric sizes, thin shim packs for micro‑adjustments, solid and flanged spacers for added bearing surface, and slotted bushings that install without removing hardware. Stocking an assortment saves time on prototypes and keeps downtime low during on‑the‑spot repairs.

Selection tips:
- Match inside diameter to the shaft or fastener for a snug slide fit; avoid play that can cause vibration or fretting.
- Size the outside diameter and thickness to support the load path without interfering with adjacent parts.
- Pick material for the environment: stainless for moisture and chemicals, brass for non‑sparking use, aluminum for light weight, nylon or PTFE for low friction and electrical isolation.
- Use stacked shims to dial in height, then replace with a single spacer once the dimension is proven.
- Confirm standards and tolerances (SAE, ISO, DIN 988) to maintain interchangeability across machines.

Benefits include faster assembly, easier alignment, improved bearing life, reduced noise, and predictable preload on bearings and seals. Whether you’re spacing gears, centering pulleys, leveling a fixture, or protecting surfaces from over‑tightening, machine bushings and spacers provide precise, low‑cost control over fit and function across your hardware and fastener projects. Keep labeled kits handy for faster, cleaner builds.