You’re looking to enhance your off-road performance and handling, but with so many options, it’s tough to know where to start. That’s where BDS upper control arms come in – engineered for peak strength, alignment, and traction. Uncover the 7 best BDS models tailored for popular Ford, Chevy, and GMC trucks. Learn how they can transform your ride and conquer even the toughest terrain.
Rough Country Forged Upper Control Arms for 2007-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500
If you’re looking to upgrade your 2007-2018 Chevy or GMC 1500 with a rugged and high-performance suspension, the Rough Country Forged Upper Control Arms are your best choice. Crafted from solid, forged aluminum, they offer superior strength and durability. The one-piece design eliminates welding weak spots, ensuring the arms won’t bend or break. The POM ball joints and fully greaseable Clevite bushings further enhance longevity. Designed for 2.5-3.5-inch suspension lifts, these arms provide a seamless bolt-on installation. With Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Warranty and positive customer feedback, you can trust these control arms to deliver peak performance and a smooth, reliable ride.
Best For: Owners of 2007-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500 trucks with 2.5-3.5-inch suspension lifts looking to upgrade their suspension and handling.
Pros:
- Forged solid aluminum construction for superior strength and durability
- POM ball joints and greaseable Clevite bushings for extended service life
- Bolt-on installation for easy DIY upgrades
Cons:
- Not compatible with stock height models or specific lift kits
- Some issues reported with product condition upon arrival and missing parts
- 3-4 hour installation time for DIY installation
KSP 2-4inch Upper Control Arms for 2004-2020 F150
The KSP 2-4inch Upper Control Arms for 2004-2020 F150 are the ideal choice for drivers seeking enhanced off-road performance and a 2-inch lift without changing their shock absorbers. Featuring a larger tubular design for improved safety, these control arms are compatible with conservative stock wheels and may also work with aftermarket wheels, though you’ll want to confirm the fitment. The PU bushings are more suitable for low temperatures than rubber, and the dust caps increase the control arms’ service life. After installation, you’ll need an alignment, but the 30-day refund and 12-month free ball joint replacement warranty provide peace of mind.
Best For: Drivers of 2004-2020 F150 trucks seeking a 2-inch lift and enhanced off-road performance.
Pros:
- Larger tubular design for improved safety
- PU bushings more suitable for low temperatures than rubber
- Dust caps increase service life
Cons:
- Conservative stock wheels may require a wheel spacer
- Alignment required after installation
- Product manufactured in China
BDS123262 | Upper Control Arm Kit | Compatible with Ford F150 (21-24)
BDS’ upper control arm kit, the BDS123262, is the ideal choice for Ford F150 owners (2021-2024) seeking enhanced suspension performance. Crafted from high-strength steel, these arms feature indexed ball joint cups, factory-style rubber bushings, and greaseable, debris-shielded ball joints. The design increases wheel travel, improves durability, and maintains ride quality. Fully pre-assembled for easy installation, the BDS123262 also adds caster to the stock alignment specifications. With a weight of 17.75 pounds and a no-questions-asked replacement policy, this made-in-the-USA kit is a reliable upgrade for your F150.
Best For: Ford F150 owners (2021-2024) looking to enhance their suspension performance and off-road capability.
Pros:
- Increases wheel travel for improved suspension performance
- Durable construction with heavy-duty components
- Maintains original ride quality and steering responsiveness
Cons:
- Not compatible with Ford F150 CCD models or Tremor variants
- Requires professional installation for proper alignment
- Relatively heavy at 17.75 pounds
KSP Front Upper Control Arms for Silverado Sierra 1999-2006
For those seeking to enhance the driving dynamics and handling of their 1999-2006 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra, the KSP Front Upper Control Arms offer a tailored solution. Constructed from sturdy copper and steel, these adjustable control arms feature a powder-coated black finish to resist rust and corrosion. The heat-treated alloy steel ball joints and greaseable sockets provide smooth, responsive performance, while the pre-installed dust boots and PU bushings guarantee long-lasting durability. Whether you’ve installed a lift kit or simply want to improve your vehicle’s ride quality, the KSP control arms are designed to deliver enhanced driving dynamics in varying temperatures.
Best For: Drivers of 1999-2006 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra models looking to improve ride quality, handling, and performance after installing a lift kit.
Pros:
- Adjustable 2-4 inches for customized fitment
- Powder-coated black finish for corrosion resistance
- Heat-treated alloy steel ball joints and greaseable sockets for smooth, responsive performance
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with bushing durability
- Concerns about customer service responsiveness during returns or replacements
- Varying levels of overall user satisfaction
Upper Control Arms for 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC
Owners of 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC models seeking enhanced performance and handling will find the BDS Upper Control Arms an excellent choice. These arms are compatible with 2-4 inch front leveling lifts, featuring heat-treated alloy steel ball joints with adjustable angles. The specialized tower dust covers protect the ball joints, extending their lifespan. Equipped with greasable zerks, these arms make maintenance a breeze. Crafted from thickened steel pipe and powder-coated, they offer durability and noise reduction through PU bushings. With a 4.4-star rating and a 30-day return policy, the BDS Upper Control Arms deliver the best performance you demand.
Best For: Owners of 2007-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC models looking to enhance performance and handling with a 2-4 inch front leveling lift.
Pros:
- Compatible with 2-4 inch front leveling lifts
- Features heat-treated alloy steel ball joints with adjustable angles
- Equipped with greasable zerks for easy maintenance
Cons:
- Some reported issues with powder coating on zerk threads
- General quality concerns noted by some users
- Proper lubrication and alignment is crucial for optimal performance
2-4 Lift Front Upper Control Arm for Chevy and GMC Trucks
The 2-4 Lift Front Upper Control Arm from BDS is an excellent choice for Chevy and GMC truck owners seeking improved performance and handling. Crafted from high-strength steel with a solid mounting bracket, this upgrade boasts unparalleled durability and strength. The TIG welding minimizes bubbles and prevents rupture, enhancing stability and safety, while the ball joints provide a smooth, pivoting movement. Installation is hassle-free, with no drilling or cutting required, and the 16.46-pound part fits perfectly into your 2007-2018 Silverado, Tahoe, Sierra, or Yukon. Backed by a 30-day return guarantee and positive customer reviews, this BDS control arm is a smart investment for improving your truck’s performance.
Best For: Chevy and GMC truck owners looking to improve their vehicle’s performance and handling with a high-quality 2-4 inch lift front upper control arm.
Pros:
- Durable high-strength steel construction
- Smooth pivoting movement from ball joints
- Easy direct replacement installation
Cons:
- May not fit all trim levels or model years
- More expensive than OEM replacement parts
- Heavier than factory control arms
BDS123254 | Upper Control Arm Kit | Compatible with Ford Bronco (21-23)
If you’re looking to upgrade your 2021-2023 Ford Bronco with a performance-oriented upper control arm kit, the BDS123254 is an excellent choice. Featuring high-strength 1.5-inch tubular construction, the BDS123254 is designed to handle leveled and lifted applications, offering enhanced durability over the stock upper control arms. Its FK uniball assembly and vulcanized rubber bushings guarantee smooth, maintenance-free performance, while the indexed ball joint cup optimizes wheel travel and suspension dynamics. Engineered for both on-road comfort and off-road capability, the BDS123254 adds 1.5 degrees of caster to maintain camber alignment for lifted Broncos, preserving the original ride quality and steering responsiveness.
Best For: Lifted and leveled 2021-2023 Ford Broncos looking to upgrade their upper control arms for enhanced performance and durability.
Pros:
- High-strength tubular construction for improved durability
- FK uniball assembly and vulcanized rubber bushings for smooth, maintenance-free performance
- Optimized suspension geometry for lifted Broncos to maintain original ride quality
Cons:
- Not suitable for Bronco Sport models or those with height sensors attached to the upper control arms
- Requires some suspension knowledge for proper installation
- Slightly heavier than stock upper control arms
Factors to Consider When Choosing BDS Upper Control Arms
When selecting BDS upper control arms, you’ll want to take into account the vehicle-specific fit, the material and construction, the adjustment capabilities, the impact on riding dynamics, and the ease of installation. Choosing the right upper control arms can optimize your Bronco’s performance and handling. Take these factors into account to find the perfect BDS upper control arms for your needs.
Vehicle-Specific Fit
Securing a vehicle-specific fit is vital when selecting BDS upper control arms. These components are meticulously designed to match the dimensions and mounting points of your vehicle model, delivering peak performance and stability. Proper compatibility with your suspension components is essential, especially if you’ve installed a lift kit or made aftermarket modifications. An accurate fit eliminates the need for additional modifications, streamlining installation. Compatibility with factory alignment specifications is necessary to prevent premature tire wear and guarantee effective handling. BDS’ vehicle-specific designs often feature enhanced performance, like improved wheel travel, to elevate your off-road capabilities without compromising on-road handling.
Material and Construction
The material and construction of BDS upper control arms are critical factors to take into account when selecting these components. The use of high-strength steel or forged aluminum greatly impacts durability and performance. Features like MIG welding and indexed ball joint cups enhance strength and longevity, preventing common failure points. Factory-style rubber or polyurethane bushings contribute to improved ride quality and maintenance-free operation. High-quality greaseable ball joints guarantee smooth movement and long service life, reducing friction. Proper construction techniques, including full-length welding and protective coatings, can mitigate rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the control arms.
Adjustment Capabilities
Adjustability in BDS upper control arms is a key consideration when selecting these components, as it allows you to precisely tune your vehicle’s suspension geometry for improved handling and ride quality. Many BDS control arms designed for lifted or leveled applications offer adjustable pivot points, enabling you to optimize wheel alignment settings. Increased caster angles, facilitated by adjustable upper control arms, positively affect your vehicle’s straight-line stability and cornering performance. Additionally, features like indexed ball joint cups enhance suspension travel and vehicle dynamics during off-road use. This versatility guarantees your BDS upper control arms can adapt to various lift heights, providing customization options for your specific suspension setup.
Riding Dynamics
When selecting BDS upper control arms, riding dynamics are a key factor to take into account. Upper control arms with indexed ball joint cups optimize suspension travel, enhancing riding dynamics by maintaining proper wheel alignment. The use of high-strength 1.5-inch OD steel tubing improves durability and stability for both on-road and off-road driving, directly impacting ride quality. Maintenance-free bushing designs reduce friction and improve responsiveness, contributing to a smoother driving experience and better handling. Progressive camber alignment and enhanced wheel travel enhance tire contact, leading to improved traction and overall handling characteristics.
Installation Ease
One of the key factors to evaluate when choosing BDS upper control arms is the ease of installation. BDS has designed their control arms to be pre-assembled, allowing for a simple and straightforward installation process. You won’t need extensive adjustments or additional components, as the arms are engineered for a precise fit with minimal stress on existing components. Many BDS control arms are also compatible with various lift kits, requiring no drilling or cutting during setup. With standard tools, you can typically complete the installation in just a few hours, making it accessible for home mechanics. And thanks to features like indexed ball joint cups, aligning the arms is easier for best performance.
Manufacturer Reputation
Alongside the installation ease, the manufacturer’s reputation is an essential factor to take into account when choosing BDS upper control arms. A strong reputation for quality and customer satisfaction is a reflection of BDS’s reliability. Their products receive stellar reviews, and they stand behind their work with extensive warranties. BDS has an impressive history and industry certifications, inspiring trust in their engineering and craftsmanship. Responsive customer support further enhances BDS’s credibility, ensuring a positive experience. Ultimately, BDS’s established reputation as a manufacturer committed to performance and customer service makes them a top choice for your vehicle’s upgrade needs.