Factory GM Upper control arm problem

48builder · October 04, 2007, 12:15:50 PM

While I have my frame all apart I was thinking I'd replace the shaft that goes through the bushings on the upper control arms. I called my parts place, and the guy says they are $100 list each, but he can sell them to me for $59. There is a note that says the MOOG part fixes a problem with the camber that exists with the factory parts. Anybody ever hear of that? I don't mind spending the $$ to fix a handling problem if there really is one.

Walt

enjenjo · October 04, 2007, 01:38:20 PM

MOOG make an offset shaft that corrects the camber if the frame is bent, and most of them are, just from age. you can put a jack inbetween the towers, and bend it out about 1/2", this does the same thing.

wayne petty · October 04, 2007, 01:56:27 PM

wow... during the time i typed a info post to this thread
http://www.roddingroundtable.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7806

you ask the exact question.

i though someone would need that answer i posted. just not that fast..

48builder · October 04, 2007, 04:01:21 PM

Quote from: "enjenjo"MOOG make an offset shaft that corrects the camber if the frame is bent, and most of them are, just from age. you can put a jack inbetween the towers, and bend it out about 1/2", this does the same thing.

Thanks. Should I do that anyway as a precaution? Is there a way to know if I should? I'm thinking of calling an alignment shop and seeing if they can align just the bare frame.

Walt

48builder · October 04, 2007, 04:03:40 PM

Quote from: "wayne petty"wow... during the time i typed a info post to this thread
http://www.roddingroundtable.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=7806

you ask the exact question.

i though someone would need that answer i posted. just not that fast..

Thanks, Wayne.

Can you tell me that measurement between the control arm mounts for my '87 Grand Prix? As I asked enjenjo, i'd rather bend it out now if it needs it.

Walt

enjenjo · October 04, 2007, 04:04:14 PM

If the frame is bare, just have it straightened before you assemble it.

48builder · October 04, 2007, 04:05:14 PM

Quote from: "enjenjo"If the frame is bare, just have it straightened before you assemble it.

OK. I'll try to find a shop that can do that for me.

wayne petty · October 04, 2007, 07:33:54 PM

becxause of the age.. yes i know its a late model.. try to find the frame dimentions first... it is listed in a frame dimentions manual.... most frame shops have newer ones.. many may have the 87.. 78 through 87 should be very close...or was 79 the first mid size g body..

be sure to check with the local trade center if they have a body shop as they buy all kinds of books and keep them...

friday i will be out collecting parts for a 66 fairlane project for a friend and i will see if i can find a frame shop that will let me photograph that page.. no promices.. and also fyi.. shooting line art with a digital camera be sure to set the camera to black and white.. to take a few.then color for a few more.. it just makes it easier later..

edit..

here is the link to an 1985 grand prix frame chart on ebay

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1985-PONTIAC-BONNEVILLE-GRAND-PRIX-FRAME-CHART_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ34232QQihZ012QQitemZ220071554439

48builder · October 09, 2007, 12:58:39 PM

Quote from: "wayne petty"
here is the link to an 1985 grand prix frame chart on ebay

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1985-PONTIAC-BONNEVILLE-GRAND-PRIX-FRAME-CHART_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ34232QQihZ012QQitemZ220071554439

Thanks, Wayne.

I bought this chart. I figure I'll try to bend mine if it needs it by using the ram from my engine hoist. If I can't, then I'll drag the frame to a shop.

Walt