Front Suspension Question

[tblake]

Alright, My car keeps pulling to the left, the I will hit a bump and it will be perfect. Then it will start to pull again. A few days ago I got out of my car at work and glanced down at the lower controll arm bushing on the drivers side and it was bad.

So my question is, Where should I go to get a couple new lower controll arms? Are there any that include bushings that are better than factory ones? Maybe ones that come painted so they wont rust.


Any ideas? Thanks guys!!!

[BNaylor]

Which control arm bushing since there are two? How old are your struts?

[tblake]

all origonal to my knowledge. Its the bushing towards the front of the vehicle.

[BNaylor]

I'm not aware of any aftermarket bushings out for the forward control arm bushing. As usual for lower control arms it is best to replace the complete control arm where you will get two new bushings and a new ball joint. Most likely the GM one.

With over 70K miles you are due for struts. You'll be surprised how many suspension problems will disappear. Also, GM revised the torque specs on the outer tie rod nuts so check that out or the tie rods ends for wear.

[tblake]

well, alright, thanks bnaylor. What kind of struts should I go with? Monroe or gabriel?

[BNaylor]

Originally Posted by tblake

What kind of struts should I go with? Monroe or gabriel?

Neither one because they are too generic in nature and members get problems with the original upper strut mount and load bearing with them. All kinds of noises and the handling will not be the same. Also, too soft. The best are the OEM GM but expensive however specially tuned for the GP suspension and chassis. For aftermarket I installed KYB GR2 all around in my GTP back at 70K miles. Did the front first and then the rear a few months later. They work very well and get better as you get some miles on them.

[proscroby]

While on the topic, My 98 GP has just gone over 79,000Km and I find the ride is a bit harsh - I am feeling every bump in the road. Would you suggest changing the struts?