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LCAs not symmetrical

Discussion in 'Suspension' started by bushtaco01, Apr 17, 2024.

  1. Apr 17, 2024 at 7:27 PM
    #1
    bushtaco01

    bushtaco01 [OP] Active Member

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    Hey guys! I got two used LCAs recently and the angle of the ball joint seat is noticeably different. Otherwise they seem to be symmetrical.

    How will this affect my suspension? Does it really matter? or would a proper alignment accomodate the symmetry issue?

    IMG_9213.jpg
    IMG_9211.jpg
    IMG_9212.jpg

    Cheers!
     
  2. Apr 17, 2024 at 7:37 PM
    #2
    Crikeymike

    Crikeymike ExitOffroad.com Vendor

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    Maybe one is OEM and one is aftermarket? The distance from the ball joint to the center of the arms theoretically should be the same but I've never checked a set side by side like that
     
  3. Apr 17, 2024 at 11:04 PM
    #3
    bushtaco01

    bushtaco01 [OP] Active Member

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    yeah, pretty sure one is aftermarket. Distances from centers to ball joint holes look to be within 1/8”, but the angle makes it a bit tricky to measure precisely
     
  4. Apr 18, 2024 at 6:07 PM
    #4
    4x4junkie

    4x4junkie Well-Known Member

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    So Calif. (SFV)
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    I don't have a 1st-gen to compare to myself, but looking at pics of other arms on the 'net, it would seem that this arm is bent right here:
    IMG_9211.jpg
     
  5. Apr 19, 2024 at 11:03 AM
    #5
    bushtaco01

    bushtaco01 [OP] Active Member

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    If it is bent, would it be a huge issue/dangerous to use?
     
  6. Apr 19, 2024 at 5:00 PM
    #6
    4x4junkie

    4x4junkie Well-Known Member

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    I wouldn't use it...
    One: The ball joint quite likely will not be at the proper angle (might hit against its max operating angle as the suspension moves, binding up the stud and it breaking off).
    Two: That is a very high-stress area that supports the full weight of the truck on that corner. If it's bent, it's likely strength-compromised as well.
    Three: Its possible you might not be able to set the wheel alignment (camber) properly.

    These aren't normally a wear item, I'd suggest hit up a junkyard for another one (or if that's what you did for these, then just take it back and get another).
     

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