Control Arms

[StG58]

OK, another hair brained idea...

I have a real itch to put control arms on my TJ. But here's the deal - I don't need them. I've only got an inch and a half of lift, with no intentions of ever going taller. The stock arms work just fine for what I do and where I wheel. But those sexy Curries just keep calling my name, wispering in the night if you will.

So a set of adjustable LCA's and a set of double adjustable UCA's have somehow made it on the build sheet.

What other worthy options are out there to consider? Oh, the control arm diameter matters, as well as the minimum adjustable length. Inch and a half of lift, right? Plus 31x10.50's on stock 7" wide grizzlies. Gotta keep'm seperated.

 

[Ahoragi]

Dude if you don't need em then don't buy em. I'd wait till your bushings bite the dust or you go higher and then upgrade....unless you own a money tree then f-it, spend away!

I prefer stock arms simply because they work for my wheeling style and are free. If I were into the rough stuff, rock crawling, go-fast kind of off roading then I'd upgrade em.

I'd rather put my $$ into extraction equipment, armor, and maintenance at this point.

 

[Jorge Bolivar]

Control arms is a nice subject full of different opinions and points of view. I'm currently pricing some of them for my Tummy tuck winter project, Boy, they are expensive. Nice looking for sure. What stop me one time of Jump on a LCA set for my Sport 98 was the unknown of the bushing quality, It's is anyone that will hold 100,000 plus miles as many of the OEM one we often saw on some TJ's?

 

[Mike_H]

Another Topic I will follow. My build plan includes a tummy tuck, which requires adj control arms. I like the Savvy Aluminum ones (reduction of unsprung weight is always a good plan) but would like to know more about the maintenance of Johnny Joints

 

[Ahoragi]

They dont require any except lube every now and then. I neglected my JJ on my xj for 6 years cuz they wouldnt take any grease and they were as tight as new when i sold it.

The JJ is the best quality joint money can buy.

 

[billiebob]

With 33s on the stock 15x7 steel spokers I'm looking for offset lower control arms so I can remove the washers from the steering stops. But I can't say I've noticed any steering handicap with the washers. Just something in the back of my mind says I should do this.

 

[Rob5589]

I have read more than a few times where Jerry has said the stock arms work great since they are designed to flex. Plus they are cheap to replace if necessary and maintenance free. Unless you need adjustable arms, save your money.

 

[bobthetj03]

Are you going to ever install a SYE? if so, then adjustables should be on your build list. Currie arms with JJ's are practically bullet proof. I've had no issues with the two lower arms I own, and they are as solid as the day I bought them. Metal Cloak is another contender. Jury is out on their longevity.

 

[Ahoragi]

With 33s on the stock 15x7 steel spokers I'm looking for offset lower control arms so I can remove the washers from the steering stops. But I can't say I've noticed any steering handicap with the washers. Just something in the back of my mind says I should do this.

I believe WJ lower control arms are bent for that very reason. Its a popular swap in the xj world. You do have to grind down the bushing sleeve a little since its wider than usual but its an easy fix.

 

[StG58]

Just exploring options right now. Gears, lockers and alloy axle shafts come first.

So, when I do the SYE and flat belly pan, what are some reasonable options for UCA's to get everything back into alignment? I don't really need double adjustable upper arms, and the lowers probably won't get changed out from stock.

 

[bobthetj03]

Trust me when I say this, you will kick yourself if you don't get double adjustable uppers. Fine tuning pinion angles can take several adjustments, and not having to disconnect one end of the arm to lengthen/shorten the arm is priceless. The lowers it doesn't matter so much. Most set the lower to center the wheel and leave it alone, or in your case, just leave the stockers on the lower.

 

[Chris]

I wouldn't consider anything unless it uses a Johnny Joint

So that brings to mind Currie, Savvy, and there may be a few others that use those joints as well.

 

[Chris]

Trust me when I say this, you will kick yourself if you don't get double adjustable uppers.

I echo this sentiment. You're a complete fool it you don't get double adjustable uppers. Your life will be so much easier with them, that's not even an exaggeration.

 

[Andy5150]

Spend your money on gearing. Keep the stock arms. When the bushings eventually wear out, you can replace all 8 for less than 150.00.

 

[StG58]

lol...but, but, but Jeep jewelry! All of you are correct of course. At some point in the future, a set of adjustable rear upper's is going to be needed for the SYE and tummy tuck. I'll cross that bridge when I get to it.

 

[bobthetj03]

Purdy! oh, shiny! You know you want some!

 

[BendLarry]

You guys kill me! Just like the Harley crowd. In every group there is at least one guy who thinks putting a chrome cover over a chrome
do-dad is the tits!

 

[bobthetj03]

Chrome makes it go faster, duh!

 

[StG58]

Purdy! oh, shiny! You know you want some!
View attachment 19893
View attachment 19894

.You're not helping matters any @bobthetj03, not helping at all.

 

[BendLarry]

stg58 maybe you should borrow a common Harley refrain, that might help you make your case.... " if I have to explain it, you wouldn't understand "


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