SPC tension Arms failed

[gostrider]

After 8 months of DD my car with spc tension arms they are completely busted on both sides. I called SPC and all they could say is that they were installed incorrect :wtf: Not sure how these could be installed incorrect its just 3 bolts. I sent them photos in hopes of them replacing them under their life time warranty. Will update with out come on this matter.

BTW These were purchase new

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040318.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040317.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040316.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040315.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040314.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040313.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/homdaism/P1040319.jpg

[xoxide]

Well, that was a cool story.

[zo0d]

Tell it again, bro.

[inopsey]

they can definitely be installed incorrectly, they must be tightened with the vehicle on the ground otherwise the load isnt positioned proper on the bushing. this goes for all bushings and ime is a real pita with no lift.

[Bushido]

Rubber bushings... Go sperical.

[mitcheyismyname]

What inopsey said....or you could jack up the front until the suspension is fully compressed and then tighten down. My buddy has been riding on SPC tension rods for 2 1/2 years....the arms are just fine. Sucks to see that though. Wanna sell me them?

[JSimpson]

ya you definitely installed them wrong. car needs to be in the ground when they're tight. Shitty design anyway, suspension will be in a bind unless the car is sitting flat and still... dumb. Just go spherical. Ebay spherical work great and feels much much better

[DRIFTER-M]

I for one think this thread is interesting, people always want to see what will happen when products fail and warranty issues arise.

Though he MAY have installed them different than suggested, I don't see how it can be proved/ how they can refuse to cover it. If they do in fact refuse to cover it due to that reasoning, can't that simply be a blanket excuse for any and all problems in the future with this particular arm?

[brndck]

we had this happen at a shop i used to work at. they were installed correctly (ie, left loose until suspension compressed, then tightened and aligned) customer returned about 2 weeks later with complaints of clunking, both sides the bushings were completely torn up. After much complaining SPC sent us another set, but the customer wised up and just bought some tein tension rods.

my question is this, if oem ones can last as long as they do (usually 100k+) before they shit the bed, then why the fuck can't SPC make theirs do the same???

[bc.]

Though he MAY have installed them different than suggested, I don't see how it can be proved/ how they can refuse to cover it. If they do in fact refuse to cover it due to that reasoning, can't that simply be a blanket excuse for any and all problems in the future with this particular arm?

Bingo. This is why warranties are useless, if they don't feel like upholding their end or you don't have proof of your correct use/installation, there is nothing saying they have to oblige by their warranty, besides ruining their name on the internet.

[jesse_s13]

we had this happen at a shop i used to work at. they were installed correctly (ie, left loose until suspension compressed, then tightened and aligned) customer returned about 2 weeks later with complaints of clunking, both sides the bushings were completely torn up. After much complaining SPC sent us another set, but the customer wised up and just bought some tein tension rods.

my question is this, if oem ones can last as long as they do (usually 100k+) before they shit the bed, then why the fuck can't SPC make theirs do the same???

bingo. Ebay ones last longer.

[garagelu]

Bingo. This is why warranties are useless, if they don't feel like upholding their end or you don't have proof of your correct use/installation, there is nothing saying they have to oblige by their warranty, besides ruining their name on the internet.

Buy SPL parts arms and see what they say when you call them with any problems. They stand behind their product 100%.

[brndck]

Buy SPL parts arms and see what they say when you call them with any problems. They stand behind their product 100%.
Also, you won't have to worry about stupid bullshit problems with Spl parts, their stuff is top quality, straight outta the box.

[johnnysombrero]

SPL Fitment is top notch. Buy once and be done with it.

[MamangSorbetero]

I bought my 240SX with these arms installed

http://i.imgur.com/drtHH.png

They have failed even though they were installed correctly. Being a cheap-ass I just bought Energy Suspension bushings for it; hopefully I can press them in. Super dangerous not being able to turn correctly or break evenly.

[kOOpA]

I had a sustained brain fart and assumed this thread was about SPL for the first few minutes. Lol wtf is SPC?

[ComicArtist]

I had a sustained brain fart and assumed this thread was about SPL for the first few minutes. Lol wtf is SPC?

Lol same here. I was under the impression that SPL used spherical bushings until I caught onto the SPL/SPC thing...

[bc.]

Buy SPL parts arms and see what they say when you call them with any problems. They stand behind their product 100%.
I have SPL arms, almost exclusively. I know they stand by their product and have good quality. But I don't know who SPC is and don't recommend trusting warranties for any other e-bay, wannabe parts company.

[gostrider]

Spc is willng to sell me a set of arms for 78$..thats what they will do to help the issue..

[Drift_86]

Dose any one know if you can install energy bushing on Spl tension rod

[Bushido]

^SPL tension rods dont have bushings, they have a spherical bearing.

[gostrider]

question is should I buy these again or go with megan racing or another brand?

[Bushido]

get part shop max tension rods, i've had mine for 5 years, no complaints

[KA24DESOneThree]

Buy SPL tension rods. Kuah and gang take good care of us, why not take good care of them?

PSM is another good brand and those guys care about the community as well.

[Drift_86]

^SPL tension rods dont have bushings, they have a spherical bearing.

I mean spc....

[codyace]

In the tension arms, I see no true fix this side of a real deal spherical bearing, regardless of brand. However elsewhere I see no issue running SPC. I've had their parts on my car, and other cars for years, with MANY track days, without issue...in fact I wish their rear toe arms were spherical as they are much nicer than even the cheapest junk.

With most parts, you need to consider their usage and warranty. Stinks SPC won't cover it, but if your car is slammed and not aligned, I can't blame them either.

[dudermagee]

I bought my 240SX with these arms installed

http://i.imgur.com/drtHH.png

They have failed even though they were installed correctly. Being a cheap-ass I just bought Energy Suspension bushings for it; hopefully I can press them in. Super dangerous not being able to turn correctly or break evenly.

If you bought them installed, how do you know they were done correctly?
Also stay the fuck away from ES, unless you want to lube them up every 6k miles or so

[az_240]

NISMO makes a bushing that goes in the stock tension arm. I've had mine for a while and they still look good. They are nice to have when driving on the streets and it's really not hard to tighten the bolt with the car on blocks of wood.

I tried the 3 piece ES ones. Didn't like them.

[kOOpA]

Buy quality parts, and have less problems when/IF they need to be replaced.

Buy crap parts, and you'll be creating threads like this.

If you're such a smart guy by saving the money, but you are about to buy pair #2 of whatever crap you can find, it wasn't so smart, eh?

[Hoffman5982]

Are people here really calling SPC an ebay wannabe brand??

You guys need to do some fucking research. SPC is for people who want full adjustability with an OEM-like feel, hence the rubber bushings.

[illvialuver]

The spl and spc mix ups in this thread makes me feel like this has been one big troll.

Yes, that does suck.

[240Shwag]

I had SPC's on my old car and they all cracked too IIRC.

I have SPL all around ready to go on the new car. That was a hard purchase all at once lol.

[Trinidrift3]

i have spc tension arms too. same thing happened....

[racepar1]

That's why you shouldn't buy cheap shit. SPC is CRAP! This is COMMON KNOWLEDGE!

[gostrider]

is megan racing any better?..I dont think scp is junk

[Hoffman5982]

SPC is not crap, the people saying so are just fucking morons. The tension rods are the only thing I've ever heard negative stories about from them. Damon ran them and didn't have any problems. I'm assuming since clearly no one is aware of the proper way to install arms with this type of bushing, that's why quite a few have failed.

[racepar1]

is megan racing any better?..I dont think scp is junk

Megan sucks ass. Their spherical bearings develop play almost immediately.

SPC is not crap, the people saying so are just fucking morons. The tension rods are the only thing I've ever heard negative stories about from them. Damon ran them and didn't have any problems. I'm assuming since clearly no one is aware of the proper way to install arms with this type of bushing, that's why quite a few have failed.

No, you're a fucking moron. Why are you going to upgrade your suspension arms with suspension arms that have rubber bushings just like stock? That doesn't make any sense. A spherical bearing doesn't make your ride quality worse, that is a myth. It makes the ride quality BETTER because the bearing eliminates FRICTION in the suspension. This allows the suspension to move more freely, which actually makes the ride quality better. That opinion was also shared by the SCC magazine guys when they upgraded their project 300zx to full sphericals in the rear suspension like a million years ago. Ride quality is the ONLY possible argument for going with the janky SPC parts instead of actual quality arms with actual quality bearings.

[Hoffman5982]

No, you're a fucking moron. Why are you going to upgrade your suspension arms with suspension arms that have rubber bushings just like stock? That doesn't make any sense. A spherical bearing doesn't make your ride quality worse, that is a myth. It makes the ride quality BETTER because the bearing eliminates FRICTION in the suspension. This allows the suspension to move more freely, which actually makes the ride quality better. That opinion was also shared by the SCC magazine guys when they upgraded their project 300zx to full sphericals in the rear suspension like a million years ago. Ride quality is the ONLY possible argument for going with the janky SPC parts instead of actual quality arms with actual quality bearings.


You are too fucking stupid. Everyone wants different things. As I said earlier, some people want OEM like parts with full adjustability. Last I checked, our cars didn't come with spherical bearings from the factory. Me personally, since you obviously think I'm one of those people, I've already started buying SPL stuff, so go fuck yourself.

I really don't get why you keep calling SPC janky. They make high quality stuff, and if the people here who have had tension arms that have failed knew how to properly tighten it, their parts would most likely still be fine.

As far as ride quality, your definition of better is opinionated, not fact. Rubber absorbs shock better. While you and I feel that spherical bearings make the ride more precise and therefor better, some would rather feel less bumps with only a minimal bump in precision over stock.

Get over yourself and try to grasp the concept that not everyone likes the same things. Jesus H fuck

[racepar1]

You are too fucking stupid. Everyone wants different things. As I said earlier, some people want OEM like parts with full adjustability. Last I checked, our cars didn't come with spherical bearings from the factory. Me personally, since you obviously think I'm one of those people, I've already started buying SPL stuff, so go fuck yourself.


If SPC is so great then why are you buying SPL? The primary reason that out cars did not come with spherical bearings is cost. FD RX7's come with full sphericals from the factory and the ride is just fine.

I really don't get why you keep calling SPC janky. They make high quality stuff, and if the people here who have had tension arms that have failed knew how to properly tighten it, their parts would most likely still be fine.

They are shit because they use rubber bushings, they look like shit, and there have been a million threads about theis stuff failing. IF they were actually of good quality they would at least use a soft urethane bushing.

As far as ride quality, your definition of better is opinionated, not fact. Rubber absorbs shock better. While you and I feel that spherical bearings make the ride more precise and therefor better, some would rather feel less bumps with only a minimal bump in precision over stock.

Well my opinion is mirrored by others that have considerably more knowledge and experience than either of us. I guess they're all fucking stupid like me...

Get over yourself and try to grasp the concept that not everyone likes the same things. Jesus H fuck

Hey, YOU attacked ME and I responded. There is no point in the pot calling the kettle black. I have no idea why you have to take the negative opinions towards SPC so personally. I mean do you work for them or something? You're just as wrong as anyone else here so just stuff it.

[Hoffman5982]

When did I say SPC is the greatest shit out there? I clearly JUST said that I got SPL because I wanted my car to be more precise instead of wanting to feel bumps a little less.

Once again, your reason for them being shit is opinionated. The people your knowledge is mirrored off of? Also opinionated. Does that mean they are wrong? No. No one is wrong when it comes to personal preference. Why can't you understand that? The people buying SPC are doing so because of personal preference. It's obviously not because SPC is cheap, because we all know they aren't. No company has a track record of none of their parts failing. Shit happens. This is the first thread I've seen about SPC failing. Hell, it's one of the few I've seen on the company in general.

[racepar1]

When did I say SPC is the greatest shit out there? I clearly JUST said that I got SPL because I wanted my car to be more precise instead of wanting to feel bumps a little less.

Once again, your reason for them being shit is opinionated. The people your knowledge is mirrored off of? Also opinionated. Does that mean they are wrong? No. No one is wrong when it comes to personal preference. Why can't you understand that? The people buying SPC are doing so because of personal preference. It's obviously not because SPC is cheap, because we all know they aren't. No company has a track record of none of their parts failing. Shit happens. This is the first thread I've seen about SPC failing. Hell, it's one of the few I've seen on the company in general.


Dude, you're 21 with 725 posts. There are a LOT of things that you haven't seen or heard. The people's opinions that I referred to are Dave Coleman and Mike Kojima. These are well-known suspension GURUS. Their opinions are not biased and I would trust their opinions over any jackass on the internet. SPC parts are technically inferior to the SPL arms that you supposedly have bought. Any argument against that is simply ridiculous. Any benefit that may theoretically be found by using rubber bushings is far eclipsed by all the drawbacks.

[xoxide]

Dude, you're 21 with 725 posts.
Not arguing over the suspension, because I have not had experience with SPC, but your post count has absolutly nothing to do with your knowledge of suspension.

[Hoffman5982]

Dude, you're 21 with 725 posts. There are a LOT of things that you haven't seen or heard. The people's opinions that I referred to are Dave Coleman and Mike Kojima. These are well-known suspension GURUS. Their opinions are not biased and I would trust their opinions over any jackass on the internet. SPC parts are technically inferior to the SPL arms that you supposedly have bought. Any argument against that is simply ridiculous. Any benefit that may theoretically be found by using rubber bushings is far eclipsed by all the drawbacks.

Jesus christ, how many times do I have to say it: I have not once said that SPC is better than SPL. You are 29 with 6,181 posts yet you can't seem to fucking read and understand simple english. This argument has absolutely nothing to do with SPC being better than SPL or any other company for that matter. I am simply saying that they are not "janky" suspension arms comparable to Wicked or whatever other cheap shit that sell on ebay. I "supposedly" bought SPL because it is of my opinion that they are one of the highest quality arms made for our cars, but that doesn't even have any relevance in this argument. Sit back and re read what I'm trying to say because you are misunderstanding it like a mother fucker


Not arguing over the suspension, because I have not had experience with SPC, but your post count has absolutly nothing to do with your knowledge of suspension.

Thank you. A lot of the older more self entitled guys seem to think that that number is related to IQ level or something.

[Nizzan4u2nv]

Tension rods on my s13 did the same thing.

[mewantkouki]

I had SPC RUCA, Toe links, Traction control rods and Tension rods on my car with spl outer tie rods and spherical knuckle bushings with KW Clubsports. Car drove incredible. They were awesome and none of them failed like these did. You guys are doing something wrong. Spherical bushings tend to be a bit noisier than rubber but I will agree that they are a better "final solution".

[gostrider]

not everyone can be baller and buy spl..spc is not a bad alternative..besides these two what other brands are "good" ??

[xoxide]

Just a side note,
I have eBay toe arms and rucas on my daily.. they came with spherical bearings, and we're 50 shipped to my door... Haven't had a single issue with them. Just saying , everyone knocks the cheap shit , but on a daily driver they work fine.
However on my track coupe, I have PBM arms... Dont want to risk failure on something thats going to take a beating.

[racepar1]

Not arguing over the suspension, because I have not had experience with SPC, but your post count has absolutly nothing to do with your knowledge of suspension.

BUT it DOES represent how long you have been around and involved with the cars. Experience is key, anybody can say whatever they want on the internet.

Jesus christ, how many times do I have to say it: I have not once said that SPC is better than SPL. You are 29 with 6,181 posts yet you can't seem to fucking read and understand simple english. This argument has absolutely nothing to do with SPC being better than SPL or any other company for that matter. I am simply saying that they are not "janky" suspension arms comparable to Wicked or whatever other cheap shit that sell on ebay. I "supposedly" bought SPL because it is of my opinion that they are one of the highest quality arms made for our cars, but that doesn't even have any relevance in this argument. Sit back and re read what I'm trying to say because you are misunderstanding it like a mother fucker

Honestly a little sentence structure would help with my "understanding" of what you're trying to say. Also if you cussed and swore more maybe it would help too!

I have held SPC parts in my hand and laughed them off. I've got plenty of experience to make an educated decision and my opinion is mirrored by countless other people. You may continue to argue if you wish but it really means nothing. There have been multiple people in this thread that had the same failure, I guess they're ALL stupid like me. I am NOT misunderstanding what you're saying. I am simply dismissing your opinion and encouraging others to do the same. I am doing this because I have the experience and knowledge to know better. I don't want others to be without that information.

[xoxide]

BUT it DOES represent how long you have been around and involved with the cars. Experience is key, anybody can say whatever they want on the internet.
Thats not true at all,

Just because someone doesnt post 20+ times per day does not mean they are incredibly knowledable. Lets use Toby (Broadfield) for example, he's only got 2000 posts, you on the otherhand have 6000 posts.. Does that mean you are more knowledgeable than he is? Absolutly not. You also have people from Fortune, PBM, Mishimoto, etc etc. representatives that post on here regularly, however still have far less posts than you... I guess that means your knowlege exceeds theirs even though they work on suspension products all day? Comeon now, your posts are reletively intelligent, and then you post something as ignorant as that? Disappointing to say the least.

[racepar1]

Thats not true at all,

Just because someone doesnt post 20+ times per day does not mean they are incredibly knowledable. Lets use Toby (Broadfield) for example, he's only got 2000 posts, you on the otherhand have 6000 posts.. Does that mean you are more knowledgeable than he is? Absolutly not. You also have people from Fortune, PBM, Mishimoto, etc etc. representatives that post on here regularly, however still have far less posts than you... I guess that means your knowlege exceeds theirs even though they work on suspension products all day? Comeon now, your posts are reletively intelligent, and then you post something as ignorant as that? Disappointing to say the least.

You are absolutely right, it doesn't necessarily matter. Those people that you are referring to are well-known, just like me. They have long-standing reputations, just like me. I would never, EVER, use that statement towards someone like Toby Broadfield. I will, however, apply that statement to a 21 year old kid that nobody has ever heard of before. Maybe he is some closet genius that has been building 240's since he was 10, but his posts certainly don't support that. What you have to understand is that I do not hand out respect to just anyone, people have to earn it. Calling me a fucking moron is certainly no way to earn respect and that kid did just that.

[Hoffman5982]

You most definitely are misunderstanding me because you have claimed countless times that I'm trying to say SPC is some divine company that has no faults. I called you a fucking moron because you compared them to the shit ebay brands. Even you should be able to admit that they are higher in quality than that.

"There have been multiple people in this thread that had the same failure". I have acknowledged that numerous times now. This just goes back to your inability to read, so I'll say it again: The majority of the people with this issue are installing them incorrectly. While I think SPC should maybe make the proper installation more clear(even though reading the instructions should tell you this), it's still the owners fault for doing it wrong.

That last post shows just how full of yourself you truly are. There's no getting through here so why even continue. You know everything and I know nothing. You keep calling me a kid, but look at how you're acting.

[racepar1]

You most definitely are misunderstanding me because you have claimed countless times that I'm trying to say SPC is some divine company that has no faults. I called you a fucking moron because you compared them to the shit ebay brands. Even you should be able to admit that they are higher in quality than that.

"There have been multiple people in this thread that had the same failure". I have acknowledged that numerous times now. This just goes back to your inability to read, so I'll say it again: The majority of the people with this issue are installing them incorrectly. While I think SPC should maybe make the proper installation more clear(even though reading the instructions should tell you this), it's still the owners fault for doing it wrong.

That last post shows just how full of yourself you truly are. There's no getting through here so why even continue. You know everything and I know nothing. You keep calling me a kid, but look at how you're acting.

You know what, you might be a little right. I've been away for a while and I may be having a little too much fun with you. Lets not forget who started this whole thing by calling me a "fucking moron" though. THAT is childish.

I have yet to see you back up anything you say with any sort of technical information or arguments. It is simply "you're an asshole" or "you don't understand". SPC parts would never be installed on my 240. Maybe they make great parts for other cars, but their 240 products suck. They're finished in flat black because that is the cheapest way to finish them. The bushings are produced by the LOWEST bidder. The overall design is also not to my liking. If SPC really wanted a quality product they should be using a soft urethane, which would not rip as easily. All those people are not installing their arms incorrectly, the bushings are failing because they are cheap and of an inferior design.

Rubber bushings do not make the overall ride quality any better. Spherical bearings have less friction which results in better overall ride quality. You are confusing road feel and responsiveness with ride quality. A tighter, more responsive suspension is better for EVERYONE who is modifying their car. There is no preference argument because nobody prefers a sloppy suspension. The one place on a 240 where a more solid bushing would make a large difference in ride quality or harshness is the rear subframe. If you go solid there you will definitely notice it and it may be too much for a daily driven car.


These are facts and technical information. I have very clearly outlined my argument in this post. I have also refrained from being insulting in any way. If you should choose to respond to this I sincerely hope that you have some sort of technical information to back yourself up with. I'm done, I have nothing more to say and I am confident that my argument is much stronger than anything you will present.

[Hoffman5982]

SPC is not crap, the people saying so are just fucking morons.

I quoted myself because you seem to think this was all a personal attack. I didn't name you specifically, and you weren't the only person making such remarks, so you took it upon yourself to get butthurt over what someone said over the internet.

As far as the argument, I told I'm done. If you haven't noticed, neither of us have budged from our outlook on the matter, and we would likely continue not doing so if this went on. Have fun thinking you are awesome. It's a good thing to have a positive self esteem, although yours seems to be unhealthily high.

[Hashiriya415]

I have brand new KTS aluminum tension rods from Japan. $180 shipped

[bataangpinoy]

You guys are doing something wrong.

QFT. common sense and knowledge seem to be lacking these days..

[Drift_86]

So....... Dose anyone know if they could press in energy bushing to spc tenstion rods?

[tricky_ab]

not everyone can be baller and buy spl..spc is not a bad alternative..besides these two what other brands are "good" ??

SPL is considered baller?

[bataangpinoy]

So....... Dose anyone know if they could press in energy bushing to spc tenstion rods?

call spc and ask?

[ixfxi]

my question is this, if oem ones can last as long as they do (usually 100k+) before they shit the bed, then why the fuck can't SPC make theirs do the same???

oh... probably because OEMs typically do hundreds of thousands of test cycles and metallurgical testing to ensure the reliability of the parts that go on our cars. whereas a lot of aftermarket components are built to standards that do not exist.


question is should I buy these again or go with megan racing or another brand?

you should use your head, thereby not being stupid. you know, like... making your own educated decisions...


Buy quality parts, and have less problems when/IF they need to be replaced. Buy crap parts, and you'll be creating threads like this.
If you're such a smart guy by saving the money, but you are about to buy pair #2 of whatever crap you can find, it wasn't so smart, eh?

haha.. well said my friend, well said.


Are people here really calling SPC an ebay wannabe brand??
You guys need to do some fucking research. SPC is for people who want full adjustability with an OEM-like feel, hence the rubber bushings.

I think you are correct in this. I dont think SPC stoops as low as Aron is making them out to seem. I know a lot of my customers in the Z/G community run their adjustable arms just for minor adjustability while still retaining OEM-like compliance. This is the first time I've seen a failure but then again, I dont spend my full time monitoring peoples suspension failures... just from what *I* hear. And I can easily see improper installing causing binding... what can you do. Like Chappelle says "Sometimes ya gotta race *****"


If SPC is so great then why are you buying SPL? The primary reason that out cars did not come with spherical bearings is cost. FD RX7's come with full sphericals from the factory and the ride is just fine.

Aron, am I missing something here? I dont see a pillow-ball setup on any of the factory photos, unless my eyes are playing tricks on me:
1993 1995 Mazda RX7 FD Front Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/160920881011)
JDM FD3S Mazda RX7 93 Control Arms Tension Rods Toe Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/380507086581)


They are shit because they use rubber bushings, they look like shit, and there have been a million threads about theis stuff failing. IF they were actually of good quality they would at least use a soft urethane bushing.

I cant say that sphericals are ideal for every application, and I can surely tell you that urethane is NOT soft. From my experience I think urethane (depending on durometer of course) is hard enough to actually cause wear to metal components and this is especially true when there is friction due to lack of lubrication which is a *very* common problem with urethane, as we both already know.

I dont have a problem with good quality sphericals, I think its nice stuff but its also more expensive, does increase NVH, and also requires higher maintenance. I recall my customers with Ariel Atoms have full sphericals and somewhere in the service guide the OE suggested replacement something like 10,000 miles.

The way I see it, there is a certain allure to stock rubber bushings which is why I still prefer the OE nismo bushings which are just a harder durometer. The nice thing is basically getting rid of 20 year old bushings and installing new ones which will last just as long. With aftermarket, regardless if its spherical or rubber or urethane... its all "unknown" as to how long they're going to last.

not everyone can be baller and buy spl..spc is not a bad alternative..
SPL is considered baller?

haha yeah, apparently anytime people have to spend over 100 bucks - its considered BALLER nowadays. I dont even want to know what people think of NISMO... thats shit must be like cristal for these broke bastards


Just a side note,
I have eBay toe arms and rucas on my daily.. they came with spherical bearings, and we're 50 shipped to my door... Haven't had a single issue with them. Just saying , everyone knocks the cheap shit , but on a daily driver they work fine.
However on my track coupe, I have PBM arms... Dont want to risk failure on something thats going to take a beating.

are you proud that your ebay parts are working?

no joke. these are the type of posts and this is the type of mentality that gets people into trouble to begin with. and to be honest, i think the wear on a DAILY DRIVEN car would be worse as its subjected to potholes and rain, all of which end up corroding and smashing these shitty made-by-hong parts. the bearings have more play than a loose hookers twat and the welds are dick. i cant understand why anyone would install shit like that over STOCK.

ive said it a million times, slot your stock control arms for adjustability and just install replacement nismo bushings in your TC rods - done and done.

[giodachamp]

You are absolutely right, it doesn't necessarily matter. Those people that you are referring to are well-known, just like me. They have long-standing reputations, just like me. I would never, EVER, use that statement towards someone like Toby Broadfield. I will, however, apply that statement to a 21 year old kid that nobody has ever heard of before.

Dude you're too funny. Well known just like you? the fuck? I don't even know you. I, on the other hand, knows Toby and Hoffman from the interior thread and the zenkis unite thread. Stop saying that you're well known, that's too funny hahahaha


Aron, am I missing something here? I dont see a pillow-ball setup on any of the factory photos, unless my eyes are playing tricks on me:
1993 1995 Mazda RX7 FD Front Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/160920881011)
JDM FD3S Mazda RX7 93 Control Arms Tension Rods Toe Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/380507086581)


Just goes to show that racepar1, is talking right out of his ass. Just shows that you just have to "Sound" that you know what you're talking about, to win an internet debate. And judging from the post that he posted, he's desperately wants to win the internet battle.LMAO!

[MrChow]

^^^
Very well said ixfxi.

I had SPC arms I thought they were great much tougher than some other arms I've held and tried out. I used them on S14 for 2 seasons on AutoX my last season I got 1st in my class. But hey really if it works why mess with it?

For TC rods do your research but that's said about anything you buy for your car.

[xoxide]

are you proud that your ebay parts are working?
You tell me, you're the Zilvia god that I clearly do not live to appease. :snoop:

[bc.]

Just a side note,
I have eBay toe arms and rucas on my daily.. they came with spherical bearings, and we're 50 shipped to my door... Haven't had a single issue with them. Just saying , everyone knocks the cheap shit , but on a daily driver they work fine.
However on my track coupe, I have PBM arms... Dont want to risk failure on something thats going to take a beating.

My daily takes waaayyy more of a beating than my track car and it is a far more dangerous place to have something fail (idiot drivers all around). Daily driving can be one of the harshest environments know to car plus all the extra miles it will see. Unless of course you live where there are pristine roads, I don't...:(

So....... Dose anyone know if they could press in energy bushing to spc tenstion rods?
Call them, but then again, why bother? Just get different tension rods instead.

[xoxide]

Roads around here are pretty nice. If I have slop a few months down I'll just throw some new qa1 rod ends on it. I checked the welds before I put them on, no undercuts, etc. I don't know how you guys drive that you tear up your suspension so mufh, maybe I just drive like a grandma. Either way, 6 months and counting with no issues. Knock on wood.

[racepar1]

Aron, am I missing something here? I dont see a pillow-ball setup on any of the factory photos, unless my eyes are playing tricks on me:
1993 1995 Mazda RX7 FD Front Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/160920881011)
JDM FD3S Mazda RX7 93 Control Arms Tension Rods Toe Control Arms | eBay (http://www.ebay.com/itm/380507086581)

The bearings all have dust boots. It looks like the front control arms may be bushings, but the entire rear suspension is bearings. I've worked on a few FD's in the past and I can assure you of that. If you look closely at the other arms you'll see that they're bearings with dust boots.

EDIT: I've been doing some research and the fronts are bearings as well. If you look in a factory parts book they're all described as bushings, but when you see them in person they're clearly bearings. If you do a search for the individual bushings it's easier to see when they're not installed in the arms. This is the type of thing that a suspension geek like me would notice...

The way I see it, there is a certain allure to stock rubber bushings which is why I still prefer the OE nismo bushings which are just a harder durometer. The nice thing is basically getting rid of 20 year old bushings and installing new ones which will last just as long. With aftermarket, regardless if its spherical or rubber or urethane... its all "unknown" as to how long they're going to last.

I was wondering when you were going to chime in. I know you've got some SPC stuff. The bottom line is that I do not agree though. I think your opinion is flawed and rubber is the worst possible bushing material available.

are you proud that your ebay parts are working?

:werd: No matter if we agree or disagree on everything, posts like this are why you rock! LOL!


Dude you're too funny. Well known just like you? the fuck? I don't even know you. I, on the other hand, knows Toby and Hoffman from the interior thread and the zenkis unite thread. Stop saying that you're well known, that's too funny hahahaha

I am not Toby Broadfield and I don't work for some super awesome JDM drift company. I'm not Mr. famous zilvia guy and I don't need to be. Those who know me have respect, regardless of any differences in opinion. I return that respect to those guys that deserve it. The bottom line is that I look down on most 240 jackasses. I've got good reason for it, you're all mostly retarded.

Just goes to show that racepar1, is talking right out of his ass. Just shows that you just have to "Sound" that you know what you're talking about, to win an internet debate. And judging from the post that he posted, he's desperately wants to win the internet battle.LMAO!

Yeah, right outta my ass. I've never worked on a FD in my life. I also haven't built dozens of 240's from the ground-up for dozens of people. I also know nothing about suspension geometry or setup. I'm not even going to bother to take your post seriously, because you're a JOKE...

[Edgar]

this thread is lol

im with koopa on this one

[zooopreme]

When threads like this come up, I can't but help but sit back and watch what happens every damn time. I've learned to stay away from threads like this because it's repetitive and annoying.

I've tried SPC arms all around, they didn't fail on me for daily application and one track use. And now I'm back on stock arms. Would I go with the arms again? Probably not. Why? If money wasn't the issue I would have gone with a better brand like SPL or PBM because for the money, they are better. Are they top tier? Nope.

The problem with threads like this is that people who know what is better try to shove that experience and knowledge to broke ass people who want to take the easy way out. You can't save every hoe and you won't start with a community that prospers on knock off parts all over their cars even when they understand what is baller or not. You know something is up when SPL/PBM is considered to be the top tier limit. That really goes to show what my generation is like.

Think about it this way. If it's not on your car, you don't have to worry about it. Sure it stinks because demand and consumers aren't increasing at a fast rate but if you've got them, then why worry about what other's are using.

Low budget arms break for the reason that they are priced so cheap. So don't be overly surprised that they broke on you. Even if you were to have a master mechanic install it for you, parts break. Putting more money into a trusted and quality product should give you a better peace of mind and assurance that it won't fail unless your absolute goal is to abuse your suspension beyond repair.

[benarovi]

spc is a pretty good brand. i had the tension rods on my s14 and they were installed 3+ years before i got the car. Was still holding up fine rubber bushing was in good condition as well

[bc.]

Roads around here are pretty nice. If I have slop a few months down I'll just throw some new qa1 rod ends on it. I checked the welds before I put them on, no undercuts, etc. I don't know how you guys drive that you tear up your suspension so mufh, maybe I just drive like a grandma. Either way, 6 months and counting with no issues. Knock on wood.

Yeah, roads around downtown St. Louis are SHIT, so I don't really drive my 240 to work. Hit me up if you ever come into town though, I will have a pothole map for you, lol.

[ixfxi]

You tell me, you're the Zilvia god that I clearly do not live to appease. :snoop:

i dont know why you would even take offense like i'm speaking down to you, its really a no brainer when it comes to ebay parts. i'm just really surprised that you could even have pride in telling people "yes, this is a shitty 50 dollar ebay suspension component installed on my car"


Roads around here are pretty nice. If I have slop a few months down I'll just throw some new qa1 rod ends on it. I checked the welds before I put them on, no undercuts, etc. I don't know how you guys drive that you tear up your suspension so mufh, maybe I just drive like a grandma. Either way, 6 months and counting with no issues. Knock on wood.

anyone who understands how things are made can easily see the reasons why these are inferior. for you, you dont see it that way - and thats fine. maybe you'll learn over time, maybe you wont. if i get heated in subjects, or aron gets heated in this subject - its probably because we have a good understanding on the subject and it gets us worked up. thats what happens when you're passionate about a certain thing. i can tell you that you're probably in better hands listening to those people, then listening to the people that say "yeah i run it, its perfectly fine"

by the way, a weld can LOOK nice but not have penetration. without xray or destructive testing, theres no way to "check" the weld. and with no consistency in the manufacturing process, theres no way to ensure quality in the products sold. AND, with fly-by-night ebay companies.. no one there to take responsibility when the part breaks and....


The bearings all have dust boots. It looks like the front control arms may be bushings, but the entire rear suspension is bearings. I've worked on a few FD's in the past and I can assure you of that. If you look closely at the other arms you'll see that they're bearings with dust boots.

EDIT: I've been doing some research and the fronts are bearings as well. If you look in a factory parts book they're all described as bushings, but when you see them in person they're clearly bearings. If you do a search for the individual bushings it's easier to see when they're not installed in the arms. This is the type of thing that a suspension geek like me would notice...

and i wasnt making my post to doubt you, i was just posting it as a reference. i vaguely recall mike yates mentioning the suspension details on his boss's FD when i was at his shop a while back. maybe juan will chime in on this.

from the photos, it looks like some parts are bushings and some parts are sphericals.. but like you said, they've got boots to protect the parts from corrosion which is a big plus. it would be nice if these bearings were offered to us.. that would make them more appealing.


I was wondering when you were going to chime in. I know you've got some SPC stuff. The bottom line is that I do not agree though. I think your opinion is flawed and rubber is the worst possible bushing material available.

FYI, i dont own any SPC parts... nor do i own any SPL parts (yet). I have some Cusco TC rods... haha i got them with my front clip and after all these years they're still nice and tight like teen POOOSEY.

[Hoffman5982]

You know something is up when SPL/PBM is considered to be the top tier limit. That really goes to show what my generation is like.


Just out of curiosity, what IS top teir then? Cusco and Kazama? This isn't a smart ass comment, I'm genuinely interested.

[kOOpA]

Just out of curiosity, what IS top teir then? Cusco and Kazama? This isn't a smart ass comment, I'm genuinely interested.
I've had both Cusco and Kazama parts fail on my cars, so I hope not.

[Hoffman5982]

I've had both Cusco and Kazama parts fail on my cars, so I hope not.

I've had Kazama tension rods for 4 years with no issues. I don't even really see anything about them so I didn't know.

[bc.]

I've had both Cusco and Kazama parts fail on my cars, so I hope not.
yeah, but you actually drive your car hard.

[racepar1]

When threads like this come up, I can't but help but sit back and watch what happens every damn time. I've learned to stay away from threads like this because it's repetitive and annoying.

I've tried SPC arms all around, they didn't fail on me for daily application and one track use. And now I'm back on stock arms. Would I go with the arms again? Probably not. Why? If money wasn't the issue I would have gone with a better brand like SPL or PBM because for the money, they are better. Are they top tier? Nope.

The problem with threads like this is that people who know what is better try to shove that experience and knowledge to broke ass people who want to take the easy way out. You can't save every hoe and you won't start with a community that prospers on knock off parts all over their cars even when they understand what is baller or not. You know something is up when SPL/PBM is considered to be the top tier limit. That really goes to show what my generation is like.

Think about it this way. If it's not on your car, you don't have to worry about it. Sure it stinks because demand and consumers aren't increasing at a fast rate but if you've got them, then why worry about what other's are using.

Low budget arms break for the reason that they are priced so cheap. So don't be overly surprised that they broke on you. Even if you were to have a master mechanic install it for you, parts break. Putting more money into a trusted and quality product should give you a better peace of mind and assurance that it won't fail unless your absolute goal is to abuse your suspension beyond repair.

QFT, very nice post.

and i wasnt making my post to doubt you, i was just posting it as a reference. i vaguely recall mike yates mentioning the suspension details on his boss's FD when i was at his shop a while back. maybe juan will chime in on this.

from the photos, it looks like some parts are bushings and some parts are sphericals.. but like you said, they've got boots to protect the parts from corrosion which is a big plus. it would be nice if these bearings were offered to us.. that would make them more appealing.

FYI, i dont own any SPC parts... nor do i own any SPL parts (yet). I have some Cusco TC rods... haha i got them with my front clip and after all these years they're still nice and tight like teen POOOSEY.

No worries Mike! You questioned, I answered. I just remember being REALLY impressed with all the bearings in the FD's that I have worked on. I swear I remember Dave telling me you had SPC RUCA's, but I guess I'm mistaken.

Just out of curiosity, what IS top teir then? Cusco and Kazama? This isn't a smart ass comment, I'm genuinely interested.

Kazama is CRAP. No better than the e-ghey stuff. Their bearings are of really low quality and also develop play pretty much immediately. IMO the best stuff available is SPL, Battle Version, Cusco, Peak Performance, and some of the PBM stuff. Each of those brands has their strengths and weaknesses, but you can rely on all of them to be good.

For those of you looking for a cheap alternative I would highly reccomend the Circuit Sports arms. I actually prefer their tension rod bearings to the ones that SPL uses.

[Hoffman5982]

Kazama is CRAP. No better than the e-ghey stuff. Their bearings are of really low quality and also develop play pretty much immediately.


:picardfp:

I really think you've said enough here. They develop play immediately? Weird, considering how I just said mine are perfectly fine after 4 years. You really are a fucking moron, and I couldn't care less if I have your respect or not.

[racepar1]

:picardfp:

I really think you've said enough here. They develop play immediately? Weird, considering how I just said mine are perfectly fine after 4 years. You really are a fucking moron, and I couldn't care less if I have your respect or not.


Still butthurt huh???

:drama:

I guess I COULD go into the TECHNICAL reasons of why I have that opinion, but you probably would just tell me I'm a moron again...

[xoxide]

This thread delivers, entertainment wise.. :drama:

[nightsauce]

Most 240 owners do not know that the bolts for the tension rods must be tightened when the car is on the ground. Hence user error.

Everything will fail eventually. That is why there is something called warranty. Rubber breaks down, hardens up and crumbles. If you're driving your car hard, arms will bend/break. Spherical bearings will blow out.

SPC is a good brand for those wanting adjustable suspension and ride comfort. SPL is for the track/drift guys or the guys that want to be sure they get the best/most reliable products. Ebay parts are for the risky/cheap guys.

/thread

[Hoffman5982]

Still butthurt huh???

:drama:

I guess I COULD go into the TECHNICAL reasons of why I have that opinion, but you probably would just tell me I'm a moron again...

You have provided no support for your technical reasoning this entire time, so yes, I will continue calling you a moron. Even if you did in fact provide evidence, saying that CS ends are better than SPL's takes all credibility away from you.

[racepar1]

You have provided no support for your technical reasoning this entire time, so yes, I will continue calling you a moron. Even if you did in fact provide evidence, saying that CS ends are better than SPL's takes all credibility away from you.

I ONLY said that I like the CS tension rod bearings better than the SPL tension rod bearings. That statement does NOT translate to the rest of the suspension arms. I could explain to you why SPL uses the bearings that I don't like in that application as well, but I would still be a moron. I've provided plenty of technical arguments and have supported my arguments with the opinions of others who are far more reputable than me. You've only been blatantly insulting and haven't supported anything that you claim with anything at all, much less with technical information. I have no need to insult you at this point. You're insluting yourself by continuing an argument with someone who VERY CLEARLY has more technical knowledge, backround, and experience then yourself.

:cj:

[Hoffman5982]

The opinion of others =/= evidence. How do you not realize that? Just because they are reputable doesn't mean anything without actual evidence.

[racepar1]

The opinion of others =/= evidence. How do you not realize that? Just because they are reputable doesn't mean anything without actual evidence.

What evidence do YOU have? I really want to hear it. You've only been insulting and clueless this whole time. You have nothing to support any of your statements. You're just another typical 240 owner. Your opinions are based on what you HEARD on the internet. You have no real-world experience to draw from.

[bc.]

This thread delivers the poo

[Nizzan4u2nv]

Back on topic...

Maybe some qa1 bearings would be a good idea. Especially since mine just sit in the garage. Time to take some measurements. I have a caliper, just need a thread gauge. I could always use them for another project.

[gostrider]

or I could get these and repair my spc and call it a day..


Energy Suspension 7.7105G Front Strut Tension Rod Bushing S13 S14 240sx Black (http://www.frsport.com/Energy-Suspension-7-7105G-Front-Strut-Tension-Rod-Bushing-S13-S14-240sx-Black_p_14994.html?gclid=CNGXltfVyrMCFRQcnAodr2QAf g)

[racepar1]

Back on topic...

Maybe some qa1 bearings would be a good idea. Especially since mine just sit in the garage. Time to take some measurements. I have a caliper, just need a thread gauge. I could always use them for another project.

You might have a solid idea there. If those rubber bushings on the SPC arms could be replaced with some QA1 rod-ends you might just have a winner. I would DEFINITELY NOT reccomend replacing the rubber bushings with urethane though. Urethane bushings are known to crack the FLCA's, even the 3-piece ones. The tension rods are the one place on the car where a bearing is the ONLY reliable option over the stock bushings.

[Nizzan4u2nv]

or I could get these and repair my spc and call it a day..


Energy Suspension 7.7105G Front Strut Tension Rod Bushing S13 S14 240sx Black (http://www.frsport.com/Energy-Suspension-7-7105G-Front-Strut-Tension-Rod-Bushing-S13-S14-240sx-Black_p_14994.html?gclid=CNGXltfVyrMCFRQcnAodr2QAf g)

How do you even know if stock replacements will fit the aftermarket spc arm?

BTW, ive also had spl tension rods and tie rod ends fail a couple times. Theyre always updating to new versions to improve their products. I have some Tein tension rods on my daily s14 right now that have bad bearings as well. Nothing is end all and perfect.

[Hoffman5982]

Avoiding a question by asking me the same thing is silly. I told you I was done before and you keep coming back spouting off bull shit. You keep talking about how great and well known you are but no one here likes you. Have fun with that guy.

[racepar1]

Avoiding a question by asking me the same thing is silly. I told you I was done before and you keep coming back spouting off bull shit. You keep talking about how great and well known you are but no one here likes you. Have fun with that guy.

You know what, I'm fucking sick of you. I skimmed through your posts and it's clear to me that you're a fucking troll. I invite everyone else reading this post to do the same. All you do is talk shit and bash other people's F/S threads. Maybe I should go bash your F/S threads you fucking troll. It should be easy since that's all you post besides bullshit. Why don't you get off your useless ass and contribute something to this "community" bofore you start talking shit to someone who HAS contributed. Go back to NICO with all the other useless, shit talking, TROLLS!

:spank:

And don't let the fucking door hit you in your lazy ass on the way out either!

[xoxide]

You might have a solid idea there. If those rubber bushings on the SPC arms could be replaced with some QA1 rod-ends you might just have a winner.
Huh... thats funny, I thought I said that a few posts up... Its ok though. :boink:

[racepar1]

Huh... thats funny, I thought I said that a few posts up... Its ok though. :boink:

I should have paid more attention to the thread and less attention to Mr. Hoffman.

:D

[Hoffman5982]

On a scale of one to butt hurt, how mad are you?

Troll? I tried ending this, you kept bringing it back. Grow the fuck and calm down you fuck tard

[Hoffman5982]

I love how I'm lazy when I'm one of the few that goes the extra few steps in EVERYTHING I do on my car

[zooopreme]

On a scale of one to butt hurt, how mad are you?

Troll? I tried ending this, you kept bringing it back. Grow the fuck and calm down you fuck tard

Why are still posting? You keep trying to get a rise out of him when clearly he's ignored your existence and your input on this subject manner.

It really seems to me that he's hurt your feelings more because he disagreed with your "rubber bushing = OEM quality" statement and called your purchase a stupid and cheap one.

Avoiding a question by asking me the same thing is silly. I told you I was done before and you keep coming back spouting off bull shit. You keep talking about how great and well known you are but no one here likes you. Have fun with that guy.

Look at you, it's like you want his attention.

If they work for you, fine. If they work for 3 of your friends, that's cool too. The fact of the matter is that OP provided proof that their product can fail.

How many threads do you see being posted up about SPL/PBM/Cusco/Fortune Auto arms failing? We virtually have 0.

There's PLENTY of reasons why we see a lot of these kinds of threads on Zilvia. And like I said before, it's literally the same outcome. "Buy better arms", "should've stuck with a better brand", "You get what you pay for" There's literally no other way to correct it than to go with a product that is known to not break.

[Hoffman5982]

He has ignored me? Are we reading the same thread??? If I was worried about someone else's acceptance I would have been gloating with joy over ixfxi agreeing with me and telling him he's wrong. Literally nothing you just said even applied to the argument in question, especially since you completely missed us talking about me buying SPL. Learn to read

[xoxide]

Just stop.. Really, you both have egged the arguement on enough now.

[Hoffman5982]

I've tried to stop. The one time I do so no one acknowledges it

[S14DB]

I've tried to stop. The one time I do so no one acknowledges it

You won't be getting the last word in...

This thread died a few pages back... :lockd: