Replacing Lower Control Arms: Swap Cast Iron for Aluminum?

[kbuskill]

Not to bump an old thread, but I'm looking at doing this also. Does anyone know approximately how much weight difference there is per LCA? alu vs steel

Want to see how much I'd gain in weight going from alu to steel to save cash on the repair. I don't care about the weight savings if its only marginally different.

I would assume the difference is marginal in the grand scheme of things.

If you have a local auto parts store that have both in stock you could carry your bathroom scale in and weigh them on the counter if you were so inclined.

If you do that, don't forget to post your findings.

 

[Ledesordre]

I would assume the difference is marginal in the grand scheme of things.

If you have a local auto parts store that have both in stock you could carry your bathroom scale in and weigh them on the counter if you were so inclined.

If you do that, don't forget to post your findings.

That’s a good point. I ended up finding a Moog LCA open box for $42 shipped so I’ll see how that works out. Will be able to measure once I get the oem alu one out.

 

[HiHoeSilver]

That’s a good point. I ended up finding a Moog LCA open box for $42 shipped so I’ll see how that works out. Will be able to measure once I get the oem alu one out.

Did you get loaded ones? I think I remember something (ball joints, maybe?) being different for steel vs aluminum.

 

[kbuskill]

Did you get loaded ones? I think I remember something (ball joints, maybe?) being different for steel vs aluminum.

Ball joints are definitely different.

 

[Ledesordre]

It was a moog brand LCA that already comes w ball joint and bushings. Should be okay but i will update. Should be here on Weds.

 

[Hi-psi]

Thanks for the info and PN screen shot @Ledesordre

 

[Mordechai]

It was a moog brand LCA that already comes w ball joint and bushings. Should be okay but i will update. Should be here on Weds.

View attachment 209575

Hey any update? Did these work for you? Also what was the weight difference?

 

[Reemo]

Our '10 PPV (2WD) has them, too. I have a 2010 POV also should I go with aluminium or cast iron

 

[jeremiahm]

I just replaced my aluminum with steel 3 months ago. Straight swap and worked perfect. Bought mine from NAPA and saved ~$150 over aluminum. I think the weight in the "grand scheme of things" comment is spot on. Fresh parts always make a huge difference, so not sure if there is a drivability difference due to the weight gain.