Looking for Recommendations on Tubular Control Arms for S10

Performance & Modifications
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Seeking Advice on Tubular Control Arms for Chevrolet S10

I’ve been diving deep into the world of modifications for my Chevy S10, and I keep coming across tubular control arms. I want to improve my truck’s handling and suspension, but I’m not exactly sure where to start.

Key Questions:

  1. What brands would you recommend? I’ve seen a few options online, but the choices are overwhelming.
  2. Are there specific kits that you all swear by? I’m looking primarily for something that offers both performance and value – my budget isn’t endless!
  3. What has been your personal experience with these control arms? Any suggestions on what to look for in terms of durability and performance?
  4. Installation tips? If you’ve done this mod yourself, any advice or pitfalls to avoid?

General Thoughts:

From what I’ve gathered, tubular control arms can significantly enhance suspension geometry, but how much of a difference do they really make? I intend to use my S10 for daily driving and occasional weekend adventures, so I’ve got to balance between performance and practicality.

Potential Brands to Consider:

  • Belltech - I’ve seen good reviews, but do they hold up?
  • DJM - Their adjustable options seem interesting!
  • Spohn Performance - Anyone have success stories?

I’d love to hear your experiences or recommendations! Looking forward to your input. Thanks in advance!

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I’ve been doing a lot of research on tubular control arms for the S10. There are options like steel and aluminum, which impact weight and strength differently. Steel is heavier but durable, while aluminum is lighter and good for racing.

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That’s really helpful! Have you come across any specific brands that stand out in terms of quality?

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I personally favor Belltech’s control arms. They have a solid design for street performance without sacrificing ride quality. Made from strong steel, they hold up surprisingly well on rough roads.

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Belltech is definitely a favorite! But I’ve heard people swear by McGaughys for racing setups, especially with their lighter aluminum options.

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I’ve used McGaughys too, but their arms are intended more for racing. If you’re a street driver, you might want to avoid the stiffer setups. Consider your driving style before buying!

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Great point! Flexibility in street driving is crucial. Anyone tried Eagle’s arms? How do they compare?

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Eagle’s control arms are decent but tend to be a bit on the cheaper side. They work for budget builds but don’t expect top-tier performance.

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That’s a good warning. I guess you get what you pay for! What about adjustable options like Spohn Performance?

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Spohn Performance offers great adjustable control arms that can really help with cornering, especially if you’re tracking your S10. They are adjustable for different ride heights too!

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Good to know! Adjustable ones sound fun! How do they hold up over time?

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I’ve had Spohn’s for over two years now, and they’ve been fantastic! Just keep an eye on the bushings, they might need replacing after heavy usage.

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That sounds reassuring! I’m also leaning toward a performance setup, but how do changes in geometry impact daily driving?

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Geometry changes can definitely affect comfort. Lowering too much might lead to harsher rides and uneven tire wear. A good balance is essential, especially for daily driving.

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Such a balancing act! It’s like trying to eat healthy food while still having pizza every Friday! Any last thoughts before I dive into a purchase?

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Haha, exactly! Just make sure to match the control arms with your overall build goals. Remember, quality matters! Happy shopping!

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I’m also looking for tubular control arms for my S10. Can anyone share what tools are absolutely necessary for the installation process?

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I recommend having a good set of wrenches, sockets, and especially a torque wrench. You might also need a ball joint separator for those tricky connections.

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Great tips! I found that having an impact wrench saved me a ton of time. What challenges did others face during their installs?

20

I struggled with getting the old control arms off. The bolts were rusted and needed a lot of penetrating oil to loosen up. Patience is key!