Control Arms & Components

Control arms are the links between the frame and the wheels, and the mounts for suspension components like shocks, springs, and sway bars. They pivot in response to road irregularities and the springs, allowing the wheels to move up and down. There are many different types of control arms and they vary in shape and construction according to the design of the suspension. However, all have bushings where they mount to the frame, and bushings or ball joints where they attach to the knuckle/spindle or axle.

Control arms were traditionally made of stamped steel, but many newer vehicles have stronger control arms cast from iron or cast aluminum control arms that are both strong and light. Control arms are generally very durable components, and service involving them is usually directed at the wear components – the bushings and ball joints, but there are conditions where replacement is called for. Stamped steel control arms are susceptible to rust, which if severe enough can weaken the arm and cause it to fail, or make bushing or ball joint replacement difficult. And all control arms are subject to bending or distortion caused by impacting a curb, collision, and even improper hookup to a tow truck.

No matter what your repair needs are or what you’re working on, late model daily driver or classic cruiser, we have the replacement control arms and related components to restore suspension function and geometry, ensuring proper wheel alignment, safe and predictable handling, and even tire wear. Our control arms are manufactured to original equipment specifications and will install and perform the same as original equipment, just at a much better price. They’re made of the same materials and most come with bushings and/or ball joint installed, according to application. In addition to control arms we also have a huge selection of separate bushings, shaft kits, shims, bump stops, brackets, heat shields, hardware, and other necessities.

Keep in mind that factory control arms aren’t designed to withstand significant horsepower increases and aggressive driving at the limit. Your OE arms also may not have the clearance you need for wider wheels and tires, or allow the alignment angle adjustments required for high speed driving or when ride height is significantly altered, like on lowered cars or lifted trucks. Our performance control arms have the heavy-duty construction to handle the g-forces and power, the configuration to prevent tire rubbing, and the alignment angles you need for optimal handling and high speed stability.

OE front suspension upper and lower A-arms can reveal their weaknesses when cars are road raced or 4WD trucks are lifted and driven aggressively off-road. These control arms can flex under severe duty use, resulting in poor handling and steering control, and can ultimately fail, leaving you with a DNF or stranded out on the trail. We can offer you strong but lightweight control arms manufactured from thick DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) tubular steel, billet aluminum or stout tubular 4130 chrome moly. Most come with premium standard or low-friction ball joints and performance polyurethane or Delrin bushings installed. We have A-arms specially designed for street performance, drag racing and road racing and some are built expressly for common mods like coilovers in place of coil springs.

In addition to the above, you’ll also find an extensive selection of control arm bushings, mounts, and hardware on our digital shelves. Our polyurethane and Delrin bushings don’t deflect like rubber, so you get precise handling and direct steering response. We have bushings to upgrade your OE control arms as well as replacement bushings for our performance control arms. Sometimes control arms must be relocated to optimize alignment angles, especially when ride height is changed, and in some cases, particularly for racing, the control arm mounting points require strengthening. We offer a comprehensive selection of custom relocation brackets and beefed-up mounts and braces, along with the necessary hardware, for off-road use and all types of competition.