LCA pros and cons
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From: Austin, Texas, America
LCA pros and cons
Sorry about the question, but the search engine is down. I wanted to know if aftermarke lcas are worth the time and money, or are they just for the look at my shiny undercar stuff? I guess i want to know if i should buy lcas when i do coilovers, or should i spend the money on a good sway bar?
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From: I am Tyson
Re: LCA pros and cons (pny1981)
aluminum LCA are almost completely for looks. any benefit over stock is negligible.
replacement CRX/4g civic rear control arms are really cheap from honda. only like $65 ea.
a swybar is going to affect your suspension. rear lca shouldnt (and if they do, it cant be good)
replacement CRX/4g civic rear control arms are really cheap from honda. only like $65 ea.
a swybar is going to affect your suspension. rear lca shouldnt (and if they do, it cant be good)
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From: chicago burbs, Il, USA
have you picked up the stock arms? they're not that heavy. (10lb savings? more like 5lbs max)
Yes it's unsprung weight so technically the suspension would react quicker, but how much does the rear suspension really move? would you even notice it?
If the weight is the main idea behind getting them... IMO just take a good sized dump before you drive, same difference.
Yes it's unsprung weight so technically the suspension would react quicker, but how much does the rear suspension really move? would you even notice it?
If the weight is the main idea behind getting them... IMO just take a good sized dump before you drive, same difference.
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Re: (Relic1)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Relic1 »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">If the weight is the main idea behind getting them... IMO just take a good sized dump before you drive, same difference. </TD></TR></TABLE>
hey.. that's my line
</TD></TR></TABLE>hey.. that's my line
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From: I am Tyson
Re: (da_truf)
if you guys are going to compare suspension arm weights, have you guys ever compared the weight of skunk2 adjustable front upper A arms? or the SRR adjustable rear upper link? those things are WAY heavier than stock, yet theres no care of the extra weight.
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From: Winnetka, Calif, USA
Re: (chinese acrobat)
I don't think any weight savings would be worth thinking about. Plus, if it's a 5 pound savings, only half of that can be considered "un-sprung" due to one side being mounted to the body.
What would keep me away from them is that an aluminum item like that would be prone to a sudden break if you hit anything. A steel member would bend a fair amount before breaking.
There is the advantage that some of them are shorter, which would enable you to move the wheels back in and under the wheel well.
Plus they do look "bling".
Wes
What would keep me away from them is that an aluminum item like that would be prone to a sudden break if you hit anything. A steel member would bend a fair amount before breaking.
There is the advantage that some of them are shorter, which would enable you to move the wheels back in and under the wheel well.
Plus they do look "bling".
Wes
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From: Texas Damnit
Re: LCA pros and cons (Tyson)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">aluminum LCA are almost completely for looks. any benefit over stock is negligible.
replacement CRX/4g civic rear control arms are really cheap from honda. only like $65 ea.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Not EVERYONE runs the 4G stamped rear LCA, MOST actually use the cast part. I get tired of everyone always assuming when talking about rear LCAS, they compare to the 4G/CRX/ITR LCA.
Secondly, if you have blown bushings, or want to upgrade the bushings, going with a set of LCAs that already feature that, as well as added ridgity and reduced weight, it might be the right decision for SOME people.
replacement CRX/4g civic rear control arms are really cheap from honda. only like $65 ea.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Not EVERYONE runs the 4G stamped rear LCA, MOST actually use the cast part. I get tired of everyone always assuming when talking about rear LCAS, they compare to the 4G/CRX/ITR LCA.
Secondly, if you have blown bushings, or want to upgrade the bushings, going with a set of LCAs that already feature that, as well as added ridgity and reduced weight, it might be the right decision for SOME people.
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From: Texas Damnit
Re: LCA pros and cons (Tyson)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">um, both the cast and stamped arms are the same price for the 4g civic and crx.
thanks for your concern.</TD></TR></TABLE>
However, you only need the stamped steel parts if you run a bling JDM suspension, OR, a kit specific to those LCAs. There are far more people that run the cast part, which is quite a bit heavier to than the stamped part.
Next.
thanks for your concern.</TD></TR></TABLE>
However, you only need the stamped steel parts if you run a bling JDM suspension, OR, a kit specific to those LCAs. There are far more people that run the cast part, which is quite a bit heavier to than the stamped part.
Next.
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From: Texas Damnit
Re: LCA pros and cons (Tyson)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">i honestly dont understand what your point is.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson's Signature »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
"I give up. The morons can have the thread."
</TD></TR></TABLE>
</TD></TR></TABLE>
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson's Signature »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
"I give up. The morons can have the thread."
</TD></TR></TABLE>
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From: Yankee in Wilmington, NC
Re: LCA pros and cons (DavidR)
that is why you would buy new lca's from honda for 65 a piece is because it comes with brand new bushings already installed...like tyson, i dont understand what you are getting at either... 
$130 for brand new honda
$200 + for aftermarket with ehh bushings and 5lbs les...
$70+ dollars worth it?
no...
$130 for brand new honda
$200 + for aftermarket with ehh bushings and 5lbs les...
$70+ dollars worth it?
no...
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Re: (Wes V)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Wes V »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">There is the advantage that some of them are shorter, which would enable you to move the wheels back in and under the wheel well.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
This is one of the worse feature of some of the aftermarket LCA's making the lower arm shorter to correct camber is a really good way to muck up your suspension geometry.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
This is one of the worse feature of some of the aftermarket LCA's making the lower arm shorter to correct camber is a really good way to muck up your suspension geometry.
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From: Yankee in Wilmington, NC
Re: LCA pros and cons (Tyson)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Tyson »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">i thnk he might be calling you a moron, gator. 
</TD></TR></TABLE>
10:56 PM 9/26/2005) DavidR: In reference to your post about the LCAs, I think you're totally wrong. Granted, the $70 should be spent on something like a rear sway bar first, however, I think the expense is worth it. Ohh, and Function7 bushings are a far cry from what Megan and Omni uses, those are cheap $5 parts you can get from Autozone. Function7 bushings are custom made for us, and have undergone extensive real world testing. Quit just regurgitating a few HT's opinions and form you own. Geez.
(11:27 PM 9/26/2005) crxgator: i have my own opinions...that is why i purchased brand new oem lca's last year...and that is what i tell everyone in every single ******* post where this question comes up...i have my own opinion on many subjects and will voice what i think is right...
(11:54 PM 9/26/2005) DavidR: Perhaps you need some education?
(12:13 AM 9/27/2005) crxgator: on what? please educate me on how some bling is going to help me out over oem...
</TD></TR></TABLE>10:56 PM 9/26/2005) DavidR: In reference to your post about the LCAs, I think you're totally wrong. Granted, the $70 should be spent on something like a rear sway bar first, however, I think the expense is worth it. Ohh, and Function7 bushings are a far cry from what Megan and Omni uses, those are cheap $5 parts you can get from Autozone. Function7 bushings are custom made for us, and have undergone extensive real world testing. Quit just regurgitating a few HT's opinions and form you own. Geez.
(11:27 PM 9/26/2005) crxgator: i have my own opinions...that is why i purchased brand new oem lca's last year...and that is what i tell everyone in every single ******* post where this question comes up...i have my own opinion on many subjects and will voice what i think is right...
(11:54 PM 9/26/2005) DavidR: Perhaps you need some education?
(12:13 AM 9/27/2005) crxgator: on what? please educate me on how some bling is going to help me out over oem...
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From: Texas Damnit
Re: LCA pros and cons (crxgator)
If you're going to post your IM history, post it all....
(6:57 PM 9/27/2005) crxgator: i took my route because a) cheaper b) oem quality, so no known problems c)other people were having problems with bushings in their lcas d) the shortened lcas are not what i want or needed...
what is your factual data that suggests these aftermarket bling are better than oem for the money, and just overall...
(11:39 PM 9/27/2005) DavidR: I will try to address all your points...
A. When it comes to cost to you, yes, OEM LCAs are cheaper, however, they're outperformed by Function7 rear LCAs, everyone knows that lighter suspension is always better, as long as strength isn't compromised.
B. While OEM quality is something to look for in all parts, what happens when you've got a part that far exceeds OEM quality? OEM isn't the absolute best quality there is avaliable... it is made to be tough and durable, but cost to the manufacture is #1 determining factor, whether it be inital cost or warranty cost. Therefore, OEM parts are usually made with cheaper materials but more of it, sacraficing performance. For instance, OEM pistons are decent, but a forged piston is lighter and can withstand more abuse, right?
C. Bushing failures ever been reported with Function7 rear LCAs. IF there is a problem with the bushing, Function7 will replace it free of charge. Stock bushings leave lots to be desired, and they have been known to fail, as well as rust with the lower shock fork bolt, rendering the arm useless...not excatly trouble free are they? Function7 LCAs feature a replaceable bushing with aluminum inserts, which will not rust.
D. Function7 LCAs are not shortened, they are stock length.
The stock CAST arms are good enough, the Function7 rear LCAs are a cut above the rest, even OEM.
(6:57 PM 9/27/2005) crxgator: i took my route because a) cheaper b) oem quality, so no known problems c)other people were having problems with bushings in their lcas d) the shortened lcas are not what i want or needed...
what is your factual data that suggests these aftermarket bling are better than oem for the money, and just overall...
(11:39 PM 9/27/2005) DavidR: I will try to address all your points...
A. When it comes to cost to you, yes, OEM LCAs are cheaper, however, they're outperformed by Function7 rear LCAs, everyone knows that lighter suspension is always better, as long as strength isn't compromised.
B. While OEM quality is something to look for in all parts, what happens when you've got a part that far exceeds OEM quality? OEM isn't the absolute best quality there is avaliable... it is made to be tough and durable, but cost to the manufacture is #1 determining factor, whether it be inital cost or warranty cost. Therefore, OEM parts are usually made with cheaper materials but more of it, sacraficing performance. For instance, OEM pistons are decent, but a forged piston is lighter and can withstand more abuse, right?
C. Bushing failures ever been reported with Function7 rear LCAs. IF there is a problem with the bushing, Function7 will replace it free of charge. Stock bushings leave lots to be desired, and they have been known to fail, as well as rust with the lower shock fork bolt, rendering the arm useless...not excatly trouble free are they? Function7 LCAs feature a replaceable bushing with aluminum inserts, which will not rust.
D. Function7 LCAs are not shortened, they are stock length.
The stock CAST arms are good enough, the Function7 rear LCAs are a cut above the rest, even OEM.
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Re: LCA pros and cons (DavidR)
Who on a street car, (who seem to be the most people who buy these LCA's) Really needs these LCA's? In other words, who has such a good suspension that that light LCA's are really going to help the overall performance of the car?
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From: Yankee in Wilmington, NC
Re: LCA pros and cons (DavidR)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by DavidR »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">If you're going to post your IM history, post it all.... </TD></TR></TABLE>
hi, look at the times and dates mine was posted, and when you replied to me...
hi, look at the times and dates mine was posted, and when you replied to me...
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From: Winnetka, Calif, USA
Re: LCA pros and cons (crxgator)
DavidR;
You seem to want to justify the quality of the Function7 arms over the OEM parts and you make some good points.
However as with most strings like this, the original question got lost.
He asked if they were "worth the time and money".
In answering that question, I'd say that they are not worth the money. It's just my personal opinion based on cost and amount of improved performance (or durability) an individual will see.
Wes
You seem to want to justify the quality of the Function7 arms over the OEM parts and you make some good points.
However as with most strings like this, the original question got lost.
He asked if they were "worth the time and money".
In answering that question, I'd say that they are not worth the money. It's just my personal opinion based on cost and amount of improved performance (or durability) an individual will see.
Wes
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From: Texas Damnit
Re: LCA pros and cons (Wes V)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by Wes V »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">DavidR;
You seem to want to justify the quality of the Function7 arms over the OEM parts and you make some good points.
However as with most strings like this, the original question got lost.
He asked if they were "worth the time and money".
In answering that question, I'd say that they are not worth the money. It's just my personal opinion based on cost and amount of improved performance (or durability) an individual will see.
Wes</TD></TR></TABLE>
If someone were looking to replace LCAs for a simple performance reason, then I would find it difficult to justify the cost as well, however, if they're in need of new LCAs for any reason, I think the little additional cost of the Function7 LCAs over new OEM arms is worth every penny.
You seem to want to justify the quality of the Function7 arms over the OEM parts and you make some good points.
However as with most strings like this, the original question got lost.
He asked if they were "worth the time and money".
In answering that question, I'd say that they are not worth the money. It's just my personal opinion based on cost and amount of improved performance (or durability) an individual will see.
Wes</TD></TR></TABLE>
If someone were looking to replace LCAs for a simple performance reason, then I would find it difficult to justify the cost as well, however, if they're in need of new LCAs for any reason, I think the little additional cost of the Function7 LCAs over new OEM arms is worth every penny.
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Re: LCA pros and cons (DavidR)
<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by DavidR »</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
If someone were looking to replace LCAs for a simple performance reason, then I would find it difficult to justify the cost as well, however, if they're in need of new LCAs for any reason, I think the little additional cost of the Function7 LCAs over new OEM arms is worth every penny.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Sounds like and you just contradicted your self. How would Function7 LCA's be worth every penny if you would not recomend someone to replace them for performance? Besides Looks, what other reason is there?
If someone were looking to replace LCAs for a simple performance reason, then I would find it difficult to justify the cost as well, however, if they're in need of new LCAs for any reason, I think the little additional cost of the Function7 LCAs over new OEM arms is worth every penny.
</TD></TR></TABLE>
Sounds like and you just contradicted your self. How would Function7 LCA's be worth every penny if you would not recomend someone to replace them for performance? Besides Looks, what other reason is there?