Lower Control Arm Replacements?

NJshadow93

NJshadow93

New member
So I've pretty much come to the conclusion that my lower control arm bushings are shot. Instead of just getting the bushings replaced, I would like to replace both control arms since at 120k, it can't hurt to get new bushings and ball joints too. I'm looking for suggestions on different brands and I'd like to keep the cost as low as possible without sacrificing quality. According to Rock Auto:

Mevotech ~ $143 each

Raybestos ~ $150 each

Beck/Arnley ~ $198 each

Moog ~ $230-$264 each

I've heard bad things about Mevotech so far so I'm basically ruling those out. Leaning toward Raybestos right now. Any suggestions/experiences are welcome. Thanks!
 
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Currently debating the same parts. My research showed either very good experiences with Mevotech (aka rebranded Moog comparisons) or very bad ones.

Unfortunately the only aftermarket stock LCA's that beef up the design are $1600/pair

Not sure what direction I'll be going. Looking forward to other responses.
 
Another option - especially if you're trying to keep down costs is to upgrade to poly bushings and install new moog greasable LBJs in the OEM arms. Should run about $150 for both sides total and if you have the time and patience - well worth it!

Then get some BAMF or Ricochet LCA skids with the saved $$$
 
HokieRunner said:
Another option - especially if you're trying to keep down costs is to upgrade to poly bushings and install new moog greasable LBJs in the OEM arms. Should run about $150 for both sides total and if you have the time and patience - well worth it!

Then get some BAMF or Ricochet LCA skids with the saved $$$
Click to expand...

That is another option, but replacing the bushings doesn't look fun, and I would have to get the ball joints pressed out and new ones pressed in. I figure, right now the OEM ball joints are still good with 120k on them, the bushings are just starting to go, and I have a seized cam bolt. I'm thinking about just rebuilding the rest of the front end in a couple months since I've already done wheel bearings and CV axles, I might as well do the LCAs while the bushings are going and tie rods since they'll be next most likely.
 
NJshadow93 said:
So I've pretty much come to the conclusion that my lower control arm bushings are shot. Instead of just getting the bushings replaced, I would like to replace both control arms since at 120k, it can't hurt to get new bushings and ball joints too. I'm looking for suggestions on different brands and I'd like to keep the cost as low as possible without sacrificing quality. According to Rock Auto:

Mevotech ~ $143 each

Raybestos ~ $150 each

Beck/Arnley ~ $198 each

Moog ~ $230-$264 each

I've heard bad things about Mevotech so far so I'm basically ruling those out. Leaning toward Raybestos right now. Any suggestions/experiences are welcome. Thanks!
Click to expand...


I bought the Raybestos from PepBoys for my 2003. within 3 months the ball-joint boots were cracked and seeping.

Next time I will go with Moog or OEM I hav enot replaced them yet, but the quality of the rubber SUCKS.
 
HokieRunner said:
Another option - especially if you're trying to keep down costs is to upgrade to poly bushings and install new moog greasable LBJs in the OEM arms. Should run about $150 for both sides total and if you have the time and patience - well worth it!

Then get some BAMF or Ricochet LCA skids with the saved $$$
Click to expand...

^Seconded, stick with your OEM LCAs and just replace the bushings + ball joints. Slap some armor on for good measure.

While you're at it I'd recommend replacing your cam tabs with some weld-ons from Total Chaos.
 
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I'm in the same boat. I decided to just replace the bushings. I'm at 125-130k but my ball joints are tighter than a nun so I saw no reason for changing them plus I don't like to replace OEM parts if I don't have to.

My 2 cents, I would stay away from Moog for vital components, I've heard a couple horror stories.
 
Which ones now?

Has there been any recent experience or long term experience on what OE style aftermarket lower controls arms seem to the best quality and value?
 
In the process of replacing my bushings I bent my passenger LCA. Got a new oem replacement from Rockauto.Com for about $225. Came with bushings and Moog ball joint already pressed. Replacement was no problem.
 
njsanna said:
Has there been any recent experience or long term experience on what OE style aftermarket lower controls arms seem to the best quality and value?
Click to expand...


I went with 1AAuto's LCA's and I had no issues whatsoever. Install went smooth and my alignment came out great. IMO, a decent alternative, and cheaper than OEM; about $175 shipped.

My intention is to rebuild my shot OEM LCA's with Energy Suspension bushings + OEM/Moog ball joints later on. Meanwhile the 1AAuto LCA's are doing just fine.

My post below, taken from this thread: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/205428-lower-control-arm-dilemma.html

Beater said:
I gave it a go today with replacing my LCA's. Began on the driver side and ran into a frozen cam (surprising I know) on the front bolt! I manged to get everything back on and I now have replacement cams/bolts/hardware on order.

From what I can tell, I don't feel the 1A Auto's *look* like they are a "cheap" part. I'm certain they will be fine LCA's.

Pics of the 1A arms:











Click to expand...
 
Over two years later, I'm back to this thread, now with 160k miles because both lower ball joints are leaking. Still haven't replaced them yet so it's definitely something to do soon. I would like to just replace the bushings and ball joints but I don't have a press so I'd need to bring them somewhere to have the ball joints pressed out/in.


T101 said:
I installed these about 3,000 miles ago and haven't had any issues. <$140 shipped. Looked identical to OE, LBJ's holding up, alignment is solid.

Lower Control Arm Arms Ball Joint Bushings Pair Fits 4Runner FJ Cruiser GX470 | eBay
Click to expand...

Wow that's a crazy price. Hope they hold up. I might consider that but I'm not confident in the quality until I do some more research.

Bangers Runner said:
Toyota Lexus GX470 4Runner FJ Front Left Lower Control Arm 48069 60010 | eBay
Click to expand...

Good price for OEM
 
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