Northern Virginia Roll Call

Sheesh, that makes the work we did seem like a walk in the park! Nice write up and pics.

 

So, in an attempt to refresh my SPC UCAs with new bushings and bearings, I ended up ruining one side whilst getting the old xAxis bushing out. That's what I get for trying to save a few bucks.

As a direct result of my incompetence, I will be buying new UCAs. Was just going to go with SPC again (which I noticed are more expensive now, real nice SPC ), but before I pull the trigger does anyone have other recommendations for UCAs? I liked the SPCs, but those bearings and bushings were shot after about 40K of mostly highway miles on the truck. Not sure if that is normal. I'm also leaning SPC again because of the adjustability, but that benefit largely depends on the quality of tech you end up with come alignment time.

I was looking at the Camburg X Joint UCAs and the JBAs, but don't have any experience with either. The Camburgs look like they might have more inner clearance, and could be an upgrade over the SPC? Plus, they look freaking sweet. The JBAs are cheaper and the bearing replacements can be found local, but I don't really want red UCAs. Anyway, as usual I am likely WAY over thinking this. If anyone has any suggestions or can comment on their experience with either the Camburg or JBA, I would appreciate it!

 

Kinda surprised and worried hearing that your bushings and bearings went out after 40k. I’ve got almost 70k on mine and smooth sailing knock on wood.

 

Yeah, I was kinda shocked. I'd only had my previous truck offroad a handful of times over the past 4 years.

 

Ditto. My off-roading consists of to and from the hunting camp and washboard roads driving too fast

 

https://jdfabrication.com/collections/gen-3-tacoma-16-6-lug/products/tacoma-2016-upper-arm

This is who makes my long travel. Their stock replacement uppers are pure unadulterated beef and very reasonably priced.

 

Damn. Those look stout as hell, and only $529 for the .75" caster ones. I would only be worried about the limit of 2" of front lift...I think my front will end up being slightly over that at 2.5 or so, but not sure yet.

Edit: and now I am drooling over the long-travel kit...thanks, Randy.

 

had me takin'alooksie too...closed that tab with a quickness. UCA's are really nice looking though.

RE: SPC Ball Joints -- I've had my second hand SPC's (older style I got off @boogie3478), he disclosed that one of the ball joints was busted. I replaced it, and they've both been running fine so far, ~24k on them so far, just learned from Boogie's video that you're supposed to grease those zerk thingys!!

 

Yeah, I kept them greased each tire rotation (~5k miles). Maybe I got a bad batch or something...or the salt air over here helped speed along their demise?

 

My guess is 2.5" won't be a problem. When I was looking to buy mine I came across that as well only to learn the extra half inch wasn't a problem. But better to ask just to make sure. I ended up going with Dirt King only because ADS had them in stock and they look cool. Before that I was leaning toward the JDs. Those guys dont fuck around.

 

My guess the uniball is clocked in a way that at 2" of lift, the uniball is centered in its travel range

 

Yeah, just shot them an email...

 

Ha ha have you been greasing them?

 

I've got the biggest smile this morning because I don't have to crawl under my truck in February.

 

Indeed, every tire rotation (5k interval).

 

I'm learning the downside to working at home is the view out the office window. Looks great outside, and I want to go find a trail.

 

This is the same problem I have. We're supposed to be working two days from home, but I've only been doing one. I get very little done on that day.

 

I get two weeks at a time. This could be rough this summer. (The Wifi reaches the patio and fire pit.)

 

Are DC folks welcome here? Just picked this up last week and looking to get acquainted with the local off road community.