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Thu Nov 20, 2008 10:14 pm

I'm swapping '86 spindles over to an '80 to allow for a vented disk upgrade, at the same time completely rebuilding the front end, bringing over the power steering, going with Addco swaybar, new shocks and springs. The question is whether it is advisable to use the later cast lower control arm or stay with the stamped steel. I'm assuming here that they can be swapped. I can't find why not. The biggest difference seems to be the radius arm and end link design. (I think that's what you call where the sway bar hooks to.) Any strength or ride difference between the two designs here? I suppose I'm wondering if there is any reason not to swap? Thanks.

Fri Nov 21, 2008 7:34 am

In my opinion, I'd swap in the cast arms. They must have changed them for a reason. The cast ones seem bullet proof. The stamped units are hollow and can collect all kinds of junk in there and rot out. As you mentioned, you will need to change the other associated parts as well. If this is coming form a doner great, if you are buying the parts, well it will get expensive.

Fri Nov 21, 2008 8:31 am

I've got an entire front end from my 1990 Westfalia with the cast control arms. PM me if you are interested. Shipping would be a bear as I'm in Pennsylvania.

Fri Nov 21, 2008 8:59 am

Fri Nov 21, 2008 11:27 am

Bmwmango, I've got a (mostly) complete 86 for parts right beside mine, but thanks. I figured cast would be the answer, but frankly the end links look just like the ones on my Ranger which I've now broken two of on a stock front end, though I suppose I do drive it like an idiot sometimes. Apples to oranges I suppose but it makes me nervous about upgrading to these.