[Dutchy]

Hi guys,

My front suspension has started to make this screatching noise. Interesting enough increasing after I drive for a while (and when the engine is warm, but I do not see the connection here). I have not been able to pump any grease in the the shaft nipples, Nipples seem to be stuck closed (is this a common problem?).
I realize that the arm installed is a cheap repro from china/japan. I am thinking of replacing the arms with better ones and made in US.
My question, are the more expensive arms indeed that much better or should I stick with the el cheapo 80dollar jobs. Or should I just replace the shaft?
Which brand is worth buying.
How do I prevent this issue in future.

Any experience that you can share with me would be highly appreciated.

R,

Jake

 

[Dutchy]

Forgot to say that the suspension was lowered and the tires are close to the fenders

 

[andrewmp6]

If your a arms are not cracked i would just paint them and rebuild them most repoped ones are hit and miss on thickness.If i had to buy one news id go with Opentracker Racing Products - Products Page but hes backed up and not taking orders for the rest of the month.

 

[snaranjo]

The control arms from Scott Drake are pretty decent too.

 

[Dutchy]

Thanks. I think I look into the SD ones. Are they expensive? How often do upper arms need to be replaced/rebuild. Is this a often reoccurring problem? If often, I may try to rebuild. I am starting to think that the wear may have something to do with the shorter springs in the front suspension. They may put a different direction force on the arm bearings. I will have a look at them and check where they have worn. Lowering suspension looks very nice, but I wonder how good it is for the vehicle.

 

[snaranjo]

The SD upper arms are about $200 for the set. You might have a geometry issue with the shorter springs. Maybe the quality of the one you have now is an issue as well. I have 620s in mine with a one inch drop and that works pretty well. Another thing to consider, although a little pricey ($200 for the set) are the roller perches from OpenTrackRacing. They completely eliminate binding and give you much smoother motion through the entire travel of the suspension. Let's face it, this suspension system was not very good even from the factory but little improvements can help. :laugh:

 

[Dutchy]

upper arm issue- problem solved

Right. I went overkill with the upper arm, and did the change out. Found out that the issue was the upper arm shaft bolt that had backed out and made the noise. I did know it was a horrible metal noise and for that matter could have been the shaft as well. See picture, next time, only replace the bolt not the entire arm (although Now a good american built arm is in place.
I am holding off on the perch as they were in great shape, but when their time has come I will go for the roller type. Looks much better technology to me.

Jake