What control arms are you using?

[50hJoe]

Ok google...:

So I just got me a 98 exploder AWD that I will be replacing my gas vaporizing dodge ram with.

The x needs the typical front end stuff replaced for state inspection, I remember seeing a thread on here a while ago discussing control arms and ball joints that were heavier duty (some using blue boots??) but much cheaper than the oem stuff. I usually use oem when possible but the motorcraft stuff is just way too expensive for me on this one.

So what are you guys using and how is it holding up. The truck will be used for DD but will see a lot of beach driving too

Thanks!

 

[MAS Tequila]

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=3443673&cc=1304435

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=3444918&cc=1304435

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=418832&cc=1354564


Use the Moog parts and you won't be disappointed.

I doubt you'll find a better price than Rock Auto.

MT

 

[koda2000]

Moog. nothing more to say

 

[swshawaii]

I remember seeing a thread on here a while ago discussing control arms and ball joints that were heavier duty (some using blue boots??) but much cheaper than the oem stuff. I usually use oem when possible but the motorcraft stuff is just way too expensive for me on this one.

This thread?
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=297369

+3 on Moog suspension parts, as long as they are the forged Problem Solver CK series,
and not the slightly cheaper RK service grade parts that don't have replaceable ball joints.
http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/moog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/ControlArmBrochure.pdf

 

[50hJoe]

swshawaii yeah that the one..thanks guys I'll check out rock auto!

 

[masospaghetti]

Moog makes good stuff for sure.

I've tried AC Delco arms on my 98 XLT, no issues with them, seemed to be of good quality, made in Spain. I also tried Raybestos Professional arms on my 96 XLT and I was not impressed with the ball joint on the LH side. A thin piece of wire was all that kept the boot on the joint and it had already popped off after installation.

I tried the cheap suspension parts on my Honda and I have to say - Its not worth it! The tie rod end ball joint threads stripped out at less than 30 ft-lb (the torque spec) - the metal must just be extremely low quality. I can't imagine they would last long at all.

 

[pitbulldell]

Can you use the one piece upper control arm on the passenger side instead of the two piece.

 

[swshawaii]

Can you use the one piece upper control arm on the passenger side instead of the two piece.

Ford Truck Upper Control Arm Replacement
http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/_pdf_en2/DYK10_106_En.pdf