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 Replacement Parts Catalog
OEM Replacement Parts Catalog
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What is a control arm?
Very commonly referred to as the A-arm and sporadically called the wishbone, the control arm is a flat metal member or sub frame that connects from the frame to the steering knuckle. The control arm is shaped like a triangle, hence the name A-arm, and connects to the frame on the broad end while connecting to the steering knuckle on the narrow end. Its rigid construction keeps it sturdy and safe while the pivot points at both connecting ends allow for it to flex and absorb the conditions of the road. The A-arm is great for absorbing the up and down motion of your car's suspension.
What can happen to my control arm?
Your control arm can experience a number of different issues. The most likely will be problems with the bushings or connections to the frame and steering knuckle. Worn down by constant jarring and exposure to chemicals and the elements, the bushings can become brittle and can break or crack under heavy pressure. A control arm can also become bent by extreme wear or from a large jolt to the steering and suspension. In the most serious cases, the control arm can become completely disconnected at the bushings causing a loss of vehicle control. Such an extreme occurrence would only happen after something similar to a major car accident or significant impact.
How do I know there is a problem with my control arm?
There are a variety of different signs to alert you of a control arm issue. If your control arm is bent, you will notice your car steering pulling you in one direction or the other, a wheel vibration at certain speeds, or you can even see your wheel resting askew when it should be straight. If you have bushing problems at the connecting points, you will hear pops, snaps, and creaks while turning or going over bumps. You may also experience more body roll while going around corners.
Are problems with my control arm really serious?
Problems with your control arm can become serious and very costly very quickly. In terms of cost, a control arm problem is already an expensive fix. If problems go unattended, repair bills will get larger and larger. Bent arms can ruin your alignment, bend your tie rods, warp or damage your ball joints, warp the steering knuckle, and even cause very quick and uneven wear on your tires. The broken bushings or connectors can add stress to your suspension, bend other steering assembly parts, and eventually lead to a complete failure which is the most expensive scenario in this case.
Are there different kinds of control arms?
Yes, there are different control arms available. They make heavy duty control arms of thicker and stronger metal for a longer lifespan and more durability. These kind of A-arms are a good idea if you plan to race your vehicle on a track or are considering an off road application. A control arm should be sturdy enough and designed to withstand the abuse you will put it through.
Latest Mercury Control Arm Applications
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Control Arm
95-97 Mercury Grand Marquis LS V8 4.6 Front - Lower/Right Control Arm |
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Control Arm
04/92 - 08/98 Mercury Villager V6 3.0 V6 3.0 Front Suspension
lower right (less ball
joint; incl. bushings) Control Arm |
Some Mercury Control Arm Applications (View Full Catalog Above)
| Mercury Grand Marquis LS |
Mercury Villager V6 3.0 |
More Applications (View Full Catalog Above)
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