Rear Control Arms

[Robert Linton]

Here are a few pictures of a rear control arm with the bushings/bearing removed and stripped of its black covering. Over the next six weeks you will see this production part 'cleaned up' a bit.

[Jack]

Mac,

I think that all of Robert Linton's posts (parts) should be put in one centralized location. I'd like to see just how many parts have been "Cartridge-ized".

I am fascinated by this process.

Jack

[Robert Linton]

Though final welding and other work is not done (e.g., stronger and lighter anti roll bar brackets), the parts are noticeably improved and weigh approximately 2.5 pounds less each.

[macfly]

The reshaping is really elegant, I look forward to seeing it completed, I hope you will finish it with a metal plate rather than paint, which will hide the new found beauty of the pieces.

[Robert Linton]

What plating do you suggest?


P.S. I bought your book, its excellent!!

[macfly]

Thank you - I'm happy you like it!

I really like the look of the electroless nickel that was shot peened before coating on the rollbars, so I would consider keeping that look, I think it will work well with your wheels and Brembo GT set, and also the new exhuast system. I'm very excited to see and photograph the completed Cartridge Alpina, it is going to be an absolute masterpiece!

[Robert Linton]

Now the brackets have been attached (notice the cup into which the drop link will actually sit) and the arms have been TIG welded. Next step is clean up, then bead blasting, then coating. Weight savings is, including brackets, 2.75 lbs. each arm -- which is a considerable amount of unsprung weight.

[macfly]

Oh my, that is just stunning, I hope you did a set for me too!! ;-)

[Robert Linton]

Thank you. I am hoping to reduce the weight of the vehicle by in excess of 175 lbs. which will produce an improvement in several respects.

[Robert Linton]

Now they are glass beaded and ready for coating.

[Robert Linton]

Power coated (plating had issues) and with its new drop link.