thoreightysix

hello,

I'm looking to replace my rear lower control arms and panhard rod for better handling. I know that I'll need new hardware, already had to replace one of the bolt/nuts on the panhard rod.

Need to know the size of the bolts / nuts for the rear lower control arms. I have came across the Spohn set you can buy, but would like to save some cash and upgrade the quality of the hardware.

As for the panhard rod. I'm guessing I need another set of these:

GM 11516933
GM 11515744


Thanks

Injuneer

If you look at the prices for the bolt and nut that you listed, you will be paying almost $4.00 for one nut and one bolt. Assuming the prices are similar for the LCA nuts and bolts, you would pay about $16. That's $4 more than the Spohn price, and it's top grade metric parts, plus the washers.

You can't buy higher quality than that.

I know there's shipping involved, but how much are you possibly going to save by hunting around a hardware store for parts that may even be Chinese counterfeits?

thoreightysix

Thanks for the prompt reply!

I guess I will go with the UMI set which is just a shade cheaper!

Now it's time to find out how hard the shop will hit me for installation & alignment. :/


Thanks!

Injuneer

Why would you need alignment? Unless you use aftermarket adjustable LCA's there is nothing to align. Even if they are adjustable, you would set them at the same length as the stock bar. Only subframe damage would cause a thrust angle problem. The install is also very easy to do yourself. That's where you can save money.

thoreightysix

Well, I usually like to do the work myself but no longer have a garage to work in. Can't work on it in the apartment complex parking lot, so I'm subjected to rolling the dice with a local shop. It sucks.

FirebirdGT

Although I do like UMI stuff, the lock nuts in their kit are inferior to the Spohn kit. UMI uses nylon lock nuts (which I would never put under the car) vs a prevailing torque nut which Spohn uses.

Up to you.
.

slowpoke96z28

It's been a few years, how are things working? FWIW, (at least in 2015) the bigger issue is the the sleeve that adapts the factory metric bolt to the 3/4" opening if you'e using a solid rod end. Once you stack the tolerances between the mount in the body, an OEM sized metric bolt, and the adapter sleeve to go from that bolt to the 3/4" hole in the ball, you still may have some play. May be less than stock bushing deflection, but disheartening still...

Injuneer

The OP has not signed into this site since his last post above, almost 4 years ago.

slowpoke96z28

And i'm hoping he gets and sees an email for the thread, he'll be curious enough to check it out.