Front suspension, Aluminumn vs Steel question.

[dadysev]

Are there certain models that have aluminumn suspension parts over steel? i'm Talking about the control arm and radius/thrust arm.
I see a combination of both and for parts also.

[ard]

You are seeing Alu and steel versions for the SAME part?!?!

[dadysev]

Originally Posted by ard

You are seeing Alu and steel versions for the SAME part?!?!

Yes, and also some DIY videos with alu. parts also.

[ard]

I dont believe you.

[dadysev]

Originally Posted by ard

I dont believe you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cmEleLYi88

have a look

[Mouse]

Nothing uncommon. We work with shops that install leveling kits to 7in lift kits and when talking with the customer, tech goes outside with a magnet to determine which suspension vehicle has. Now this is on domestic vehicles, not sure how it applies to ours. For example, Tahoes/Yukons will have steel, where the Denali/Escalade equals will have the aluminum. But this is not always the case, which is why techs will check before quoting proper kit. I always found it odd myself.

[SeanC]

Originally Posted by dadysev

Are there certain models that have aluminumn suspension parts over steel? i'm Talking about the control arm and radius/thrust arm.
I see a combination of both and for parts also.

Yes. My '09 4.8i had thrust arms that are aluminum. I replaced them with steel Lemforders, then those with aluminum again.

[josiahg52]

I watched the video. Those were aluminum arms. I've never seen anything but aluminum arms for BMWs. I've only been around them for 15 years though. The tie rod ends are steel.

[ard]

Originally Posted by dadysev

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cmEleLYi88

have a look

1. That's Alum. You said there are the same parts availbale in steel and Al.

2. The guy in the video is a hack. Smacking the knuckle with a metal hammer enough to leave marks?!?!? OMG. Then he pushes the new bush in, but does it improperly: the center, silicone oil filler inner part protrudes out the ends. You should not compress this part, distort the entire geometry until the outer metal jackets contact. But the old out with a properly sized ring. Then push in a new one. DO NOT load or distort the rubber. I see in the comments he didn't torque them with the suspension fully loaded either.

[dadysev]

Originally Posted by ard

1. That's Alum. You said there are the same parts availbale in steel and Al.

2. The guy in the video is a hack. Smacking the knuckle with a metal hammer enough to leave marks?!?!? OMG. Then he pushes the new bush in, but does it improperly: the center, silicone oil filler inner part protrudes out the ends. You should not compress this part, distort the entire geometry until the outer metal jackets contact. But the old out with a properly sized ring. Then push in a new one. DO NOT load or distort the rubber. I see in the comments he didn't torque them with the suspension fully loaded either.

Agreed he's a hack. no need to hit aluminum! lol!