adjustable control arms

[dscowell]

I got adjustable arms when I got my lift but I'm not sure what length to set them at. On CC they have a reference for the lengths http://comancheclub.com/topic/28233-lift-vs-control-arm-length-table/

LIFT......LCAs......UCAs

Stock....15.75"....15.00"
2"........15.92"....14.88"
3"........16.09"....14.92"
4"........16.33"....15.03"
4.5".....16.47"....15.11"
5"........16.62"....15.21"
6"........16.97"....15.44"
7"........17.36"....15.74"
8"........17.81"....16.09"
9"........18.30"....16.50"
10"......18.82"....16.96"

The only thing I'm confused about is someone added that each length should be an inch longer. I set my lower arms at 16.25" would this work okay? What length should I be setting my arms at or what would work best?

Also what is the best way to get them in? My father and I attempted the other day but couldn't get them in but sense then I've watched a couple youtube videos so I have a little better idea of what to do but what works best? And if anyone would be willing to help get them in that would be greatly appreciated!

[xaza]

Remind me, how much lift did you put on? IIRC it was 3", which would make 16.25 most likely good. I personally don't like that chart you got because it shows to shorten the uppers at 2" lift. The uppers don't even need to be lengthened until quite a lot of lift. Here is a chart we used that worked great for our trucks with the Dana 30.

http://www.lunghd.com/Tech_Articles/Suspension_Steering_Axles_and_Brakes/Control_Arm_Chart.htm

[redneck23ms]

if nyou have adjustable uppers and lowers then set the lowers to get the wheelbase close to where you want in then adjust the uppers for the correct caster. 5-8 degrees. if no adjustable uppers then set the lowers where you have them and then adjust for correct caster.

[dscowell]

What effect does the caster have?

[Chris]

I like this site for a clear explanation.

"If the camber is out of adjustment, it will cause premature tire wear on one side of the tire's thread. When the camber is out of adjustment it can cause a pulling problem to the side with the more positive camber.
This usually happens when the vehicle has been involved in an accident which has caused structural damage or damage to the strut and / or spindle assembly. Camber also goes out of adjustment when the springs sag and causes ride height to change, or when ball joints and or other attached parts are worn or defective. It also varies depending on speed as aerodynamic forces changes riding height."

http://www.anewtoronto.com/wheel%20alignment.html

[gm4x4lover]

Caster is not only measure of wheel base but also what angle or degree the knuckles swing at.

[otisdog]

I'm not sure about your truck but for a TJ Jeep 16.25" is correct for a 4" lift on the lowers. Caster will decrease with a lift and some is ok. Caster for my TJ is 7* stock and with a 4" lift is at 5.3*. No problems. I've kept my front upper CA's at stock length.
As long as your wheels return to center after you turn the caster should be ok. Camber should not be a problem but you do need to check the toe-in.
Jim

[dscowell]

Should I go get an alignment after they are installed? Or bring my truck somewhere where they can adjust all of this to the correct angles and what not

[Hypoid]

Should I go get an alignment after they are installed? Or bring my truck somewhere where they can adjust all of this to the correct angles and what notA good shop will make the adjustments to get the front aligned. Use this page to get everything close, then have your truck put on the alignment rack: http://www.go.jeep-xj.info/HowtoAlignment.htm

If you don't have Marcus' page saved, you need to ad it to your favorites. :) http://www.go.jeep-xj.info/