[NathanK24]

So I am in the market for replacing my front upper control arms (thrust arms). Keep in mind that I have an xi model. What is the best upgraded model I can buy? Would rather do the entire arm than just bushing. Also would prefer to have it come with ball joint. If it does not, does anyone sell an upgraded ball joint of sorts that makes any difference? If I can't re-use/re-connect stock ball joint.

I was also considering doing the front lower control arms as well, with an upgraded model. I want to get better handling feel, and stiffen up the front. Rears may eventually follow. Let me know your recommendations or experiences you've had.

[Antetokounmpo]

I can't say I've seen upgraded front arms as an assembly. You'll probably have to reuse the arm and change the inner bushing. And also, removing the ball joint from the spindle is almost impossible.

[NathanK24]

Originally Posted by Antetokounmpo

I can't say I've seen upgraded front arms as an assembly. You'll probably have to reuse the arm and change the inner bushing. And also, removing the ball joint from the spindle is almost impossible.

I was reading some horror stories about that. Saw one unique method was leaving one end of thrust arm on and hammering down opposite end I think. I would only do this if I was replacing both parts.

[Antetokounmpo]

Originally Posted by NathanK24

I was reading some horror stories about that. Saw one unique method was leaving one end of thrust arm on and hammering down opposite end I think. I would only do this if I was replacing both parts.

Not a chance honestly, there's no room to hammer on the thrust arm. I hammered incredibly hard directly on top of my ball joint with a pretty heavy sledge and it didn't budge.

[NathanK24]

Originally Posted by Antetokounmpo

Not a chance honestly, there's no room to hammer on the thrust arm. I hammered incredibly hard directly on top of my ball joint with a pretty heavy sledge and it didn't budge.

So do you recommend leaving the ball joint alone (assuming it is in good condition), then just replacing thrust arm bushing (assuming thrust arm itself is good condition too)? I'm not too familiar with the process.

[Antetokounmpo]

Originally Posted by NathanK24

So do you recommend leaving the ball joint alone (assuming it is in good condition), then just replacing thrust arm bushing (assuming thrust arm itself is good condition too)? I'm not too familiar with the process.

I can't say for sure but I ended up just doing new thrust arms with new OE spec bushings and had to leave the old ball joints in and it definitely still made a big difference. My inner bushings were completely shot. I'd be surprised if new ball joints made that big of a difference.

[dpaul]

I've got a set of traction arms with strongflex polyurethane bushings already installed for sale if that's of interest.

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1573020

Also, hammering on the ball joint itself to remove it is impossible but a 3lb sledge on the traction strut itself, near the ball joint, pops it right out (once the retaining screws are removed of course). Then replace the ball joint if concerned about damage.