ZUKIWORLD Online | Suzuki 4x4 Editorial and Forum
ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Build Diaries, How-To, DIY => Topic started by: utahskibum on February 09, 2011, 04:18:02 PM
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I noticed the bushings on my rear control arms were getting worn out and sloppy and it was time for replacement. I chose to replace the uppers with rubber. The lowers I replaced with creeper joints. My arms were Calmini arms but stock arms could also be done in the same way. There is no slop in the rear axle and I have increased my rear travel and flex for off roading.
First I outlined the stock arms and marked the centers of the holes in each end so the length would be the same. The joints are adjustable but the tube needs to be cut down so the joints will be able to adjust to proper length.
I got the rubbber bushings for the uppers, the weld in bungs, and the creeper joints from Low Range off road. They were pretty cheap and seem to work well so far.
Cut the tube straight (I use duct tape to keep my saw in line). Bevel the cut end so you have a "valley" to fill with your weld between the tube and the bung.
After I welded in the bungs, I matched my holes back up to my original outline. The length is easily adjusted and the jam nut included with the joints keeps them in place. I did have to increase the hole size of the mounting brackets on the truck as the joints take a larger diameter bolt. You also need to grease the joints before you use them. I let the grease and the joints warm up inside for a while to help them get lubricated.
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Nice, I used something similar from Balistic Fab to build my adjustable trailing arms. They worked great too, flexed like hell, but the joints eventually became noisy even though I continually greased and adjusted them. Finally sold them because the clacking drove me nuts. They do flex great though.
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creeper joints in action
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what size joints and tube sleeves did you use? I am going to do this and move my rear back at the same time.