I'm freshening up the front end of my 1990 Warrior (I cant believe it's the first time) and It seems the upper and lower ball joints that attach to the steering knuckle are welded in-place ? Is it just a "paint mirage" or are they actually welded into the A-arms?

If they are welded, who makes/sells the least expensive aftermarket replacement arms. Longer arms may require new shocks and I'd rather not go there. I'm cautious that E-bay may just result in wore-out arms/ball joints. Any suggestions ???

Thanks in advance, Eric

 

Eric, yes they are welded. Worn joints = new a-arms. Factory units are still the cheapest alternative even new from the dealer. Cheapest set of aftermarket I've seen is a set from American Star Racing for Parts direct, mild steel not chorme moly. Typically range from aftermarket I've seen is $475 through $725. Most are +2 wide 0 forward. I've seen some with +1 forward. Good Luck and would be interested in what you find and how they worked. I'm in the market too. Mine aren't worn just want to get away from wheel spacers.

 

It would be safer to buy new A-arms,I had a 1988 Warrior that I rode in the river a lot and after about 8 yrs when I was doing a wheelie the left bottom ball joint came out. I cut them off and used Volkswagon ball joints, but finally broke down and bought stock A-arms.

 

That's what I was expecting - Damn.

Looks like an OEM replacement is $180 (for one) and then the other 3 are likely going to wear out pretty soon as well. I found a replacement at http://www.vincescycle.com/ for $140 but.....Man, I really dont want to dump over $400 into a 12 year old bike !? But...I still ride her so.....

If anybody out there has a good set of "low miles" A-arms let me know.

Thanks, Eric