DrAtomica

While we're at talking about LCAs, is there any difference between the pre 97 and 97+ LCAs. I remember reading somewhere that the 97+ LCAs are made so that the bushings can be replaced. Does this mean you don't have to buy a whole set but just bushings?

CoOl21

Yep, 97+ bushings are meant to be replaced, but the ball joint at the end you can only get with the arm :/ so it's kinda a toss up
Right/Left Front Bushing # 48655-24050
Right/Left Rear Bushing # 48654-24040
These are Lexus only parts, and they want ungodly amounts for these rubber pieces ($115~150CAD/ea)

DrAtomica

Thanks CoOl21

Now I'm really interested in these $30 LCAs. The type of casting done is extremely crucial to the strength, what are some ways we can measure the strength of the two and compare?

Returd

XRF for metalurgy. I'd test several locations.

X-ray for casting flaws.

Testing will cost more than the arm.

LexIS007

iTrader: (1)

I would like to be assured the structural integrity of those castings.

Even if Toyota outsources these to China for reproduction, at least I know Toyota is behind the reproduction quality process...however, this seems too good to be true (at least from a quality stand point).

KahnBB6

iTrader: (5)

^^ Thanks, Returd! Looks like that will have to be the next step if it gets that far. But this wouldn't tell us anything about the ball joint quality, would it?

tjmhillz

iTrader: (6)

following this thread to see the outcome as i am currenlty looking to replace my lca. Sucks that figs is so expensive and supras are hard to find.

Returd

no it won't, these things sound like death on a stick. They likely won't fail under low stress, low speed driving but rather at highway speed in a corner. You'll have a few seconds to revel in the money you saved as you careen off the road.

Ramblerman

You'd be suprised to find out how much of your JDM car is actually made in China. Even they farm out work! Has any one heard of North American Suspension? They are in Illinois. They are a subsidiary of Sankei-555 co. of Japan who makes aftermarket parts for our cars, including control arms. They also manufacture in China. I couldn't get into Sankei parts catalog as i not a registered member, but i may contact NAS for some info, but may have to use my corporate credentials. Still willing to get a set of these chinese arms to try out so lets get this approved, and get a few to test. I can do most of the NDE testing here at work.

RXRodger

iTrader: (2)

Not necessarily, if they turn out to be junk then yes, but without looking at them and trying a set out you can't really say that for sure. Like the post above says, you might be surprised to know what is actually made there. Evaluation and test is the only way to know.

tjmhillz

iTrader: (6)

i tried doing some research on this company and wasnt able to find much. only thing i did find was on fb and it only had like 2 reviews from like 4 years ago. both reviews sad the quality of the items was bad. i guess you get what you pay for in the end.

BlackIRON

Any updates on these yet?any pics at all?

- V -

iTrader: (1)

Ok now that Irma passed over im back to normal...ish. Still a ton of debris around my area but my power came back on today so im back up and running.
Ramblerman were you able to get a reply from miparts in regards to purchasing just one set of these arms to test quality and fitment?

Returd

mark up will be around 50%

what quality level do you a critical suspension part will be at a manufacturing and distribution cost of $15?

I think your odds are better taking a ride in a 50 year old Russian helicopter maintained by parts starved Cubans.

RXRodger

iTrader: (2)

About the same quality as all the other billions of pieces made in that country. Some are sheet and some are not bad depending on who was behind the venture and what quality measures they put in place. Thats why you look and decide. But if you don't want to consider it then this thread is not for you.