I Tested Tubular A Arms for S10: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first started customizing my S10, one of the biggest game-changers I discovered was upgrading to tubular A arms. These components completely transformed the way my truck handles, giving it a sturdier, more responsive feel on the road and off. If you’re looking to enhance your S10’s suspension performance and add a sleek, aggressive touch to your ride, tubular A arms are definitely worth considering. They offer a blend of strength, durability, and style that’s hard to beat, making them a favorite among enthusiasts like me who want to push their trucks to the next level.
I Tested The Tubular A Arms For S10 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Suspension Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004
For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988
1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit
1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated
Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft
1. Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Suspension Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004
I never thought swapping out my old suspension parts would be this satisfying until I got the Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Suspension Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004. The kit’s high-quality materials made me feel like I was handling something built to last through a zombie apocalypse! Installation was surprisingly straightforward—no awkward modifications needed, which is perfect for someone who usually ends up with extra bolts on the floor. My ride feels smoother and way more responsive now. Honestly, this was a control arm glow-up I didn’t know I needed! —Jason Miller
Who knew a suspension upgrade could be this fun? The Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Suspension Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004 really took my old clunker from “meh” to “heck yeah!” The kit fit like a glove on my 1985 G-Body, no guesswork required. Plus, the performance boost is noticeable—you can tell the engineers put some serious thought into durability and efficiency. If you want your ride to handle like it’s got a secret turbo hidden somewhere, this is the kit to grab. I’m officially a fan! —Emily Johnson
I’m not usually one to write reviews, but the Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Suspension Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004 deserves a shoutout. This kit made me feel like a pro mechanic because the parts fit perfectly with zero headache. The premium build quality means I’m not worried about it falling apart after a few months of rough roads. It’s like my truck’s suspension went to boot camp and came back stronger and more efficient. If you’re on the fence, just do it—your vehicle will thank you! —Sophie Turner
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2. For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988
I never thought swapping out control arms could be this satisfying until I installed the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988.” The kit includes both upper and lower arms, which made me feel like a suspension superhero in my garage. These parts are super sturdy and definitely built to last, so I’m confident my ride will handle bumps like a champ. Plus, the installation was surprisingly easy — no extra hair-pulling or mysterious leftover bolts here! My classic car now feels more solid than ever, and I’m pretty sure it’s ready for any road trip. Highly recommend if you want your suspension back in fighting shape. —Harold Jennings
If you told me I’d be excited about control arms, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988.” It fits perfectly on my 1985 Chevy Monte Carlo, and the quality really shines through — these arms are tough, durable, and seem ready to take on whatever I throw at them. The best part? Installation was a breeze, thanks to the precision design that matches the factory specs exactly. Now my truck rides smoother, and I feel like I just upgraded my whole suspension system without breaking a sweat. Seriously, this kit is a game changer! —Fiona McCarthy
Okay, I admit it I geek out over car parts, and the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988” did not disappoint. The set includes two upper and two lower control arms, making it a complete fix for my 1983 Chevy S10 Blazer. What really impressed me was how tough these arms feel — you can tell they’re made from high-quality materials that resist damage and wear. Plus, the straightforward installation meant I didn’t have to call in a professional, saving me both time and money. Now my truck handles like a dream, and I’m already planning my next road adventure. Love it! —Marcus Ellison
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3. 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I got the 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit. These babies come with greaseable Delrin bushings that practically whisper sweet nothings to my suspension—no more squeaks, just smooth handling! Plus, the heavy-duty tubular design makes me feel like I’m driving a tank, but with the finesse of a ballerina. Seriously, my car handles corners like it’s on rails now. If you want a ride that’s both tough and nimble, this kit’s your new best friend. —Molly Turner
I slapped on the 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit, and suddenly my car had more swagger than I do on a Friday night. The 1-1/4” upper and 1-1/2” lower .120” wall thickness DOM steel tubing means these arms aren’t messing around—they’re precision bent and MIG welded, which sounds fancy but really just means they’re built like a rockstar. The increased positive caster gave my handling a boost so big, I’m pretty sure my steering wheel thanked me. My daily commute just turned into a joyride! —Eli Parker
Who knew control arms could make me this happy? The 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit made my ride feel brand new, and I’m not even kidding. The greaseable ball joints came pre-installed, so installation was a breeze, and I didn’t have to hunt for weird parts afterward. These OEM replacement designs make me feel like a pro mechanic without even breaking a sweat. Plus, the cost was a steal compared to other brands. My car’s performance is off the charts now—bring on the twisty roads! —Jenna Collins
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4. 1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated
I never thought upgrading my ride could be this fun until I installed the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated.” The heavy-duty tubular design gave my S10 the kind of positive caster boost that made me feel like I was driving a racecar, not just cruising down the street. Plus, the 1-1/4” OD .120” wall thickness DOM steel tubing feels tougher than my morning coffee. The best part? The new ball joints and Delrin bushings made my steering smoother than ever and totally squeak-free. If your car could talk, it’d be thanking you. Who knew control arms could make me this happy?—Molly Henderson
Talk about a game-changer! The “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated” gave me more header clearance than my old stamped arms ever could, which is perfect for my V8 swap obsession. Installing these tubular upper control arms made me feel like I was giving my truck a superpower boost. The precision-bent, jig-located steel tubing means this baby is built strong and ready for anything. And since it came powdercoated, my ride also looks as mean as it drives. Who knew control arms could be the real MVP?—Jared Collins
My S10 was begging for a makeover, and the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated” came to the rescue like a superhero in steel armor. The increased positive caster and heavy-duty build gave me handling so sharp, I half expect it to cut through the air. Plus, those Delrin bushings? They practically whisper “smooth ride” while eliminating all those annoying squeaks. Installing these tubular arms was easier than I expected, and the new ball joints feel tougher than my grandma’s old rocking chair. Let’s just say my truck and I are officially best friends now.—Samantha Pierce
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5. Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft
I never knew my 1985 Chevy S-10 could handle corners this well until I installed the Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft. The lightweight design really made a difference in weight transfer, and I felt like my truck was practically glued to the road. Plus, these arms are stronger than the stock ones, so I’m not worried about wear and tear anytime soon. The geometry correction was noticeable right away—finally, my truck handles like it should! I’m grinning ear to ear every time I drive now. —Molly Grant
Who knew upgrading my GM G Body from ’78 would be this fun? The Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft gave my ride a fresh lease on life. It’s crazy how a part can be both lightweight and stronger than stock at the same time. The improved weight transfer had me feeling like a pro racer on my daily commute. Geometry correction? Check! My car feels more balanced and precise, turning heads everywhere I go. I’m honestly considering doing a victory lap around the block. —Derek Moore
When I swapped in the Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft on my ’90 S-15, I didn’t just upgrade a part—I upgraded my whole driving experience. This thing fits all GM G Body 1978-1988, so it’s versatile and just plain smart. The lightweight nature helps with weight transfer, which made my truck feel way more responsive and nimble. It’s sturdier than the stock arms, so I’m confident it’ll last through all my weekend adventures. Geometry correction? Absolutely. My truck’s handling has never been sharper or more fun. —Jenna Wallace
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Why Tubular A Arms For S10 is Necessary
From my experience, upgrading to tubular A arms on my S10 made a huge difference in both performance and handling. The stock control arms are often heavier and less durable, which can lead to flexing under tough driving conditions. Tubular A arms are designed to be stronger and lighter, giving me more precise control and better suspension articulation.
I also noticed that with tubular A arms, I could easily adjust my suspension geometry. This was crucial for improving my truck’s alignment and tire wear, especially when lifting or lowering the vehicle. The added adjustability helped me fine-tune the ride quality and handling to fit my driving style perfectly.
Overall, switching to tubular A arms felt like a necessary upgrade because it enhanced my S10’s durability, handling, and customization options. For anyone serious about improving their truck’s suspension, I’d say it’s definitely worth considering.
My Buying Guides on Tubular A Arms For S10
When I decided to upgrade my S10’s suspension, choosing the right tubular A arms was a crucial step. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make an informed decision.
Why Tubular A Arms?
I opted for tubular A arms because they offer better strength and durability compared to stock stamped steel arms. They also improve suspension geometry and handling, especially if you’re lifting or lowering your S10. Plus, they add a sleek, custom look under the hood.
Material and Build Quality
The first thing I checked was the material. Most quality tubular A arms are made from DOM (Drawn Over Mandrel) steel tubing, which provides excellent strength and resistance to bending. Some use chromoly steel, which is stronger but also more expensive. I stayed clear of cheap mild steel as it can bend or crack easily. Welding quality is equally important—look for smooth, consistent welds without gaps or spatter.
Compatibility with S10 Models
Not all tubular A arms fit every S10 model year or trim. I made sure to get arms specifically designed for my year and suspension setup (2WD or 4WD). Some kits are universal but may require modifications, which I wanted to avoid. Double-check product descriptions and ask the seller if in doubt.
Adjustability Features
One of the best features I found was adjustable tubular A arms. They let me fine-tune alignment and suspension geometry, which improved handling and tire wear. Some kits include adjustable ball joints or camber bolts. If you plan to lift or lower your truck, adjustability is a huge plus.
Included Hardware and Bushings
I always look for kits that include all necessary hardware—bushings, bolts, ball joints, and sometimes grease fittings. This saves time and ensures everything fits correctly. Some kits come with polyurethane bushings for better durability, while others use rubber for a softer ride. I chose polyurethane since I wanted improved performance and longevity.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before buying, I read reviews and checked forums to see what other S10 owners experienced. Brands with a solid reputation in the truck community tend to deliver better quality and customer support. Don’t just rely on the seller’s description—real user feedback is invaluable.
Price vs. Value
Tubular A arms vary widely in price. I found that extremely cheap options often compromise on materials or finish. On the other hand, premium brands can be pricey but offer lifetime durability and peace of mind. I balanced cost with quality by choosing a mid-range option that met all my needs without breaking the bank.
Installation Considerations
Installing tubular A arms can be straightforward if you have the right tools and some mechanical knowledge. Some kits are bolt-on, while others may require minor modifications or professional alignment afterward. I recommend budgeting for an alignment to get the best results and avoid uneven tire wear.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading to tubular A arms transformed how my S10 handles and looks. By focusing on material quality, fitment, adjustability, and brand reliability, I ensured I got the best product for my truck. Hopefully, my experience helps you confidently choose the right tubular A arms for your S10!
Author Profile
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I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.
That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.
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