Front Control Arms (FAQ)
From Nissan 350Z & 370Z Wiki
This FAQ covers the front upper control arms on the Nissan 350Z. Some other names you may see are A-arms, camber arms, etc.. This guide attempts to cover all grounds assuming you know nothing about this component. We cover everything from the OEM specs, installation tutorials, and even what to look for when purchasing an aftermarket set of arms for your 350Z.
Also See
GENERAL
What is an A-Arm?
The term A-Arm (also called control arm, upper control arm, etc..) refers to the upper component on the 350Z/G35 front suspension. It serves to stabilize ad control the camber angle of the front wheels.
What is camber?
Camber refers to the vertical angle of the wheels.
Positive (+) camber refers to the wheel leaning outwards at the top.
Negative (-) camber refers to the wheel leaning inwards at the top.
Are the OEM A-Arms adjustable?
No. The OEM front suspension lacks the ability to adjust camber. This becomes a problem for those who lower their 350Z/G35. This also has the potential downside when the suspension wears out over time and needs realignment.
Are there aftermarket ones available?
Yes. There are several aftermarket options available to those needing/wanting to have adjustable front camber.
What is the maximum adjustment range?
Each arm has a different method of adjustment and a different range of adjustments. See the A-Arm wiki page for detailed specs on each. Contrary to popular belief, most of the arms are designed to give MORE negative (-) camber. This is not what a lowered car needs however.
There is a limit built into the front geometry on how far you can adjust the camber in the positive direction. The inner fender is designed with a "pocket" to clear the front suspension during compression. The clearance is minimal and any adjustment outwards may cause clearance issues.
NOTE: The pocket is easily bent to create more room if needed.
Which aftermarket A-Arm is the best?
Aluminum vs. Steel
The OEM arms are made of aluminum. These components do not take significant amount of load. Aftermarket arms are made from either material and the choice is driven by the manufacturer preference and methods.
Who makes them?
Currently Cusco, Kinetix, 350evo, Esprit, and Stillen make adjustable front camber arms for the Z/G. See the A-Arm parts page for more detailed information on each: Link
Why is there such a wide price range?
There are many factors in this equation, most noted:
- Material: the material used will factor into the pricing structure of the A-Arms. Aluminum, steel, and stainless steel are the most common.
- Manufacturing: The material used also drives the manufacturing method. Plain steel tubes bent into the shape and welded is typically cheaper to manufacturing that arms cut from a single piece of aluminum plate.
- Company: Each company has a goal in mind as well as manufacturing and materials at their disposal. It comes down to image and quality.
Do I need these? Why?
Most Z/G owners will not need these, however there are a few circumstances where they are either needed, or would be a good addition.
- Track driving: For the serious track driver, adjustable camber is almost a necessity. Tweaking the suspension can have a significant impact on the handling characteristics and lap times.
- Lowering: When the Z/G is compressed, the geometry goes through a parabolic transition. Lowering a car is essentially compressing the suspension to some degree, changing the "neutral" suspension position. The most notable affect of lowering is increased tire wear. Adjustable suspension arms can help alleviate this wear and get the geometry back into the designed specs.
- Show/Modding: Let's face it: if you have the mod bug, you want to change out everything whether you need to or not. If you are aiming to get listed in a magazine you probably want an extensive parts list to boot.
INSTALLATION
How much will installation cost?
Are there any additional parts needed?
No. The after market arms will come with any necessary bolts, washers, etc.. that will be required for the installation.
Can I install these myself?
Yes. If you know your way around the a garage then you should be ok swapping these out yourself. There is only 3 bolts holding these arms in place. You should be able to do this without removing the spring/shock assembly.
Is there a tutorial?
Not yet, but check the Service manual as it walks you through the steps required to remove the OEM arms and reinstall them.
What are the torque specs?
Check the Service manual for the proper torque specs. There was a TSB released to fix some incorrectly torqued front A-Arms.
OTHER
Are there potential weight savings?
Absolutely not. The stock A-arms are about as light as can be made (within a reasonable price). They have no adjustment sections and they are solid Aluminum. By adding adjustable sections, more material is required to strengthen the arm. Therefore, all of the current aftermarket arms are a good deal heavier. However, the weight gain is more than offset by the performance increase in braking and cornering (yes, they can help braking with the proper setup).
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