Thrust Arm Spherical bearings/monoballs (interested?)

[TQ2K]

Originally Posted by mattmartindrift

I just told the machine shop to start work with 6 orders for the spherical setup shown on the first page. The time line is 15 days on their end.

Pricing will be $455.

While they're working I have the ability to increase the quantity.

Bearings have arrived, too.

Still in for a set!

[Ohmess]

Deal me in.

[mattmartindrift]

Originally Posted by TQ2K

Still in for a set!

Originally Posted by Ohmess

Deal me in.

PM'd x2

[mattmartindrift]

Version two!

This setup is not proven like Version 1, so it will be tested on my car for a few months, first.

It is also more of a compromised setup when compared to the rigidity and precision of V1.

[Checock]

Matt, what's the expected ETA for shipping? Are you planning in having two options; v1 and v2?

[mattmartindrift]

Originally Posted by Checock

Matt, what's the expected ETA for shipping? Are you planning in having two options; v1 and v2?

There will LIKELY be two versions available for purchase. That will be determined after thorough testing of Version 2.

V1 is the setup posted on page one. Which is what the deposits have gone towards; unless you want to wait for testing of v2 to be finished.

The tentative date for V1 to shipping is the first week of May. However that is based on the machine shop being on time which could be off by up to a week.

V1 is a tried-and-true design using an Aurora High-Misalignment, Teflon-lined spherical bearing inside of my retainer housing. This setup will offer the best improvement in steering response and precision.


V2 uses a high-misalignment polished ball, retained in a 2-piece polymer race.
My theory is that by using a softer race combined with the split-in-two design, it will offer more ride comfort for those who deal with rough roads, or just prefer a softer setup. However this added comfort will give up some of the steering precision seen in V1, while being a significant improvement over OEM rubber, and urethane alternatives.

I want to be clear that my theories on Version 2 are just that: theories. They are not meant to be fact or actual opinion based on use. I will post my results after thorough testing.

[Checock]

Originally Posted by mattmartindrift

There will LIKELY be two versions available for purchase. That will be determined after thorough testing of Version 2.

V1 is the setup posted on page one. Which is what the deposits have gone towards; unless you want to wait for testing of v2 to be finished.

The tentative date for V1 to shipping is the first week of May. However that is based on the machine shop being on time which could be off by up to a week.

V1 is a tried-and-true design using an Aurora High-Misalignment, Teflon-lined spherical bearing inside of my retainer housing. This setup will offer the best improvement in steering response and precision.


V2 uses a high-misalignment polished ball, retained in a 2-piece polymer race.
My theory is that by using a softer race combined with the split-in-two design, it will offer more ride comfort for those who deal with rough roads, or just prefer a softer setup. However this added comfort will give up some of the steering precision seen in V1, while being a significant improvement over OEM rubber, and urethane alternatives.

I want to be clear that my theories on Version 2 are just that: theories. They are not meant to be fact or actual opinion based on use. I will post my results after thorough testing.

Sounds good. I'm looking for a tried platform for reliability and performance. I'm not overly concerned on increased NVH or harshness since I'm on the stock suspension. I just want something that will last the rest of the car's life as well as provide good performance.

[mattmartindrift]

Spherical bearings do wear and are not likely to last the vehicle's lifetime (>200k for some folks).

However, this setup allows for the bearing to be removed and replaced in the event that it is well and truly worn. Their service is simpler and less expensive when compared to OEM bushings.

It may even be possible to RnR the bearing with the thrust arm still attached at the knuckle. And you shouldn't need a press after the initial install, at least until the ball joint dies and you swap the setup into a new thrust arm

[mattmartindrift]

V2 will be getting installed on the test car this weekend, or early next week.

[mattmartindrift]

The outer bolt spacers are delayed - set to be done around May 15th. The major bolt-together retainer parts are set to be done this week.