Control Arms

[sourcandy]

Much to most peoples dismay, yes, I still plan on making my own control arms.

So fabricating the arm isn't really a big issue for me.
Spherical rod ends are easy to get, the problem has been the ball joint.
I finally made some headway tonight while searching again.

I think I found something similar to what SPL is using on their arms.
http://www.splparts.com/main4/parts/NissanShared/Suspension/Multilink/SPLFrontLowerArm.jpg
I like the way they use their ball joint, I've also found some screw ball joints which might be a way to go also (main concern being how much force the threads can take)

At anyrate...
http://www.hrpworld.com/client_images/ecommerce/client_39/products/1423_hdr_2_l.jpg
Those seem to be the missing link I have been looking for to make my own arms without having to use an OEM balljoint. I need to find some data sheets on them though to find out sheer strength and load ratings, etc.

Please don't respond with it's cheaper to buy them made, that is not the point. That is why I posted this in the fabrication forum.
SPL charges 600 bucks for lower front S14 arms.
If I make them myself with current prices I've found, I should be able to make 2 arms for about half that at 250 give or take 20 bucks for fluctuation in metal price. Then again at almost 80 bucks a piece, might be better to use an OEM style balljoint.

-Ed

[rsxse240]

You're lucky, atleast S14 ball joints are available.

[rico05]

I was reading an artice in Muscle Car Review at work yesterday, and they were rebuilding the front end of a E body. They run threaded ball joints, and if it takes a 8' breaker bar to get them out, and they can take the load from a 4100lb car for 30+ years, I think that the design is solid. They were the uppers, but still.

Pretty sweet project. I personally want to try something similar to the Battle Version kit. You just lop off the pivot bushing and add a spherical bearing and pop in a ball joint the same style as you posted above. Then, box in the body of the arm and there you go.

[sourcandy]

Yeah I really like the idea of the threaded ball joint. Easy to weld in one of the bungs on a control arm. Good to know I won't have to worry about it busting the threads. lol :D