GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Control Arm question

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Old 09-17-09, 03:58 PM
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KingNasGS4
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Default Control Arm question

first of all, yes I did search but did not really find the answer to what I was looking for...
some answers contradict each other, so I just figured that I would start a new topic.


now my question is, do I necessarily have to change the ENTIRE control arm when everything sounds clunky down there? my mechanic already told me its the arms and that its 800+ for both of them.

ive seen people talk about changing the bushings, but others say that the whole arm was replaced if it was the joint. is this mandatory?
anyone have any input?
Old 09-17-09, 04:13 PM
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GSteg
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It depends which control arm is in question. We have one upper and 2 lower. You can replace all the bushings with an aftermarket set, but you will have a harsher ride.

Only the upper control arm has a balljoint. This is the only arm you have to completely replace if the ball joints are no longer good. But as far as bushing goes, you don't have to replace any arms.

You need to find out if the noise is coming from the joint or bushing(s).
Old 09-17-09, 05:48 PM
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sorry i forgot to mention that it is the uppers both sides.

im thinking the ball joints maybe bad today the mechanic had it on the lift and banged on the wheel with his hand and we heard the harsh bang and clang.

my old ls did the same thing
Old 09-17-09, 09:17 PM
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EN_VY
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If it is the upper control arms, then you can not replace the ball joint. I have the drivers side if you interested.
Old 09-17-09, 10:05 PM
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im not trying to spend over $ 100 for a used side... how is the condition of yours?

and i notice that you are a part of the cinnabar GS crew like myself... ive gotta post pics idk how to put it in my sig...
Old 09-18-09, 05:21 AM
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EN_VY
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I just read what your not trying to spend. Its in good condition. I dont know if your going to want it, but you have to understand these are expensive parts. When I purchased it, I was shocked to see what the dealer wanted for each. Let me know.
Old 09-18-09, 11:54 AM
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sakataj
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Originally Posted by kosi718
im not trying to spend over $ 100 for a used side... how is the condition of yours?

and i notice that you are a part of the cinnabar GS crew like myself... ive gotta post pics idk how to put it in my sig...
dont buy a used one or you gonna end up with the SAME problem
Old 09-18-09, 05:34 PM
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KingNasGS4
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eh i bought some used ones for my LS and its worked fine.

and plus with all of the expenses i have right now, i have to settle for the less expensive route.
Old 09-19-09, 04:34 AM
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Originally Posted by kosi718
first of all, yes I did search but did not really find the answer to what I was looking for...
some answers contradict each other, so I just figured that I would start a new topic.


now my question is, do I necessarily have to change the ENTIRE control arm when everything sounds clunky down there? my mechanic already told me its the arms and that its 800+ for both of them.

ive seen people talk about changing the bushings, but others say that the whole arm was replaced if it was the joint. is this mandatory?
anyone have any input?
I changed both control arms for way less than that. I'm in ny too. My noises didn't go away after that though.

I'm looking at struts next.
Old 09-19-09, 01:32 PM
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KingNasGS4
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anyone who has a car in NYC knows how devastating the road is to your suspension...

it just makes me wanna move to the suburbs.
Old 09-20-09, 12:10 PM
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V8LexGS
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Default Recent Control Arm Order

I just recieved an order of GS400 Front Control Arms from Sewell Lexus.

Even with their "front set" combo discount, and our additional Club Lexus discount.......it cost $610 JUST FOR THE ARMS.

So....if the $800 is for genuine Lexus parts, and labor - it's not THAT bad a price. Try to get the mechanic to eat the sales tax - - and THEN you got a good deal.

;-)
Old 09-20-09, 01:23 PM
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the reason I am trying to get things done at a more affordable rate right now it because im unemployed...

spending $800 when you are unemployed to get ONE issue resolved is a lot, especially when you have other issues to resolve. i got food to put in my belly and other's and living costs.

I just wanna put something temporary till I get back on my feet.
thanks for the suggestion but its really not feasible for me right now.

btw my LEX mechanic dont charge tax
Old 09-20-09, 01:26 PM
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Eating is secondary to modding. I thought this was common knowledge.
Old 09-20-09, 01:52 PM
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lol I know i sacrifice my food, but i know im not gonna sacrifice others food.
Old 09-21-09, 11:33 AM
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Originally Posted by kosi718
eh i bought some used ones for my LS and its worked fine.

and plus with all of the expenses i have right now, i have to settle for the less expensive route.
ls didnt share this issue that ours did


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