Warning to those w/aftermarket A-arms

I have the AC lift w/upper a-arms, and noticed a few weeks ago that both forward a-arm bushings were split. I called AC and Mike sent me new ones fast&free. To make a long story short, the forward upper a-arm cam bolt can easily be overtighted when being aligned. This pinches the mount inward (you can actually move them with very little force i.e. large screwdriver). When it pinches the bushing it crushes the inner metal sleeves,in effect binding them ,this also splits the poly bushing. One set of sleeves was seriously grooved from this binding. I guess my advice is to advise whoever aligns it that they not exceed the 100lbs/ft factory recommendation. If they just torque the hell out of em your going to have problems.

That pressure/binding might have something to do with the fact that you have to max you cam bolt to get your X near alignment with the AC arms..

The cam bolts didnt have to be "maxed". Its relation as to position had no effect on the outcome.I had plenty of adjustability and no problem with alignment. I believe it was more an overzealous mechanic with his impact wrench set on overkill.

Those are the most dangerous

The alignment issue would have no affect on this Carlton. No matter were you put the cams, the bushings have the same clearance all the way around.

Mine are squeaking like a bitch though. I think they are way to tight. When I did my balljoints this weekend it took a bit of effort to move the arm up and down. Of course that all could have been from the shocks. I should have unhooked them to see. :rolleyes:

That's why you shouldn't use poly bushings... Delrin bushings are better. They are stronger.

I'm curious as to what other aftermarket A-arms are using for bushings? One piece or two? Also,again,i don't think that the bushing material was the cause of the failure.