I'm looking for advice about replacing a control arm that has apparently worn to the extent that the front bush (the cylindrical one) just slides in and out, and more alarmingly, moves about while driving. It must be said that when I bought this car there were a series of issues with the front right suspension and I'm guessing that it has taken a serious bump (no sign of body damage though).
Given what happened to the last one I'm a bit concerned about buying an aftermarket unit. Strangely my spare car (a 1996 model) has different sized hole where the ball joint attaches so no use (unless I replace the ball joint, but then I really should do both sides and my car will wind up a hybrid 1995/6 which doesn't appeal to me). Also I live in the bush and the car does a fair bit of corrugated roads so I'm keen to stick with quality suspension parts.
But locating a used part is proving difficult so maybe I will buy an aftermarket one.
I see that micksgarage.com has an Optimal brand unit that they can supply for less than $200 shipped, which seems like a very good price. I also got a quote from Eurocarcare for a Febi Bilstein unit for something like £122, ie around $230. But they are buying it from Germany, shipping to the UK then on to Australia. Surely I should be able to buy direct from Germany?
Anyway what I'd appreciate is advice on locating a used one or the quality of aftermarket units.
Thanks in advance.
Given what happened to the last one I'm a bit concerned about buying an aftermarket unit. Strangely my spare car (a 1996 model) has different sized hole where the ball joint attaches so no use (unless I replace the ball joint, but then I really should do both sides and my car will wind up a hybrid 1995/6 which doesn't appeal to me). Also I live in the bush and the car does a fair bit of corrugated roads so I'm keen to stick with quality suspension parts.
But locating a used part is proving difficult so maybe I will buy an aftermarket one.
I see that micksgarage.com has an Optimal brand unit that they can supply for less than $200 shipped, which seems like a very good price. I also got a quote from Eurocarcare for a Febi Bilstein unit for something like £122, ie around $230. But they are buying it from Germany, shipping to the UK then on to Australia. Surely I should be able to buy direct from Germany?
Anyway what I'd appreciate is advice on locating a used one or the quality of aftermarket units.
Thanks in advance.