Upgrading your 3rd gen 4Runner’s upper control arms can dramatically improve its handling and stability, especially when you’ve lifted it 2-4 inches. These forged aluminum arms offer enhanced steering sensitivity and easy installation with pre-assembled ball joints. While the options come highly recommended, you’ll need to carefully consider fitment and alignment to get the most out of your upgrade.
Front Upper Control Arms for Toyota 4Runner, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Lexus GX470, and Lexus GX460
If you drive a 3rd generation Toyota 4Runner, Toyota FJ Cruiser, Lexus GX470, or Lexus GX460, the front upper control arms are an essential upgrade to contemplate. These purpose-built replacements accommodate 2-4 inches of lift, maintaining proper alignment and enhancing handling. Crafted from high-strength tubular material with a refined matte finish, they provide durable, long-lasting performance. Pre-assembled ball joints simplify installation, while the included urethane bushings deliver improved ride quality. Backed by a 2-year warranty, these control arms are praised for their quality, functionality, and competitive pricing. Upgrade your suspension with confidence and enjoy the enhanced driving experience.
Best For: Owners of 3rd generation Toyota 4Runners, Toyota FJ Cruisers, Lexus GX470s, and Lexus GX460s looking to upgrade their front suspension with a lift-compatible solution.
Pros:
- Accommodates 2-4 inches of suspension lift while maintaining proper alignment
- Constructed with high-strength tubular material and a durable matte finish
- Quick and easy installation with pre-assembled ball joints
Cons:
- Some fitment issues reported by users with incorrect models
- Potential for rust due to powder coating, despite long-lasting structural integrity
- May not be compatible with all lift kits or suspension modifications
Upper Control Arms for 1996-2003 Tacoma 4X4 and 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner 4WD
For owners of 1996-2003 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 or 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner 4WD, these heavy-duty Dynofit upper control arms are your best choice. The zinc-nickel alloy ball joints offer superb longevity and range of motion, while the polyurethane bushings reduce noise, improve temperature handling, and are easily replaceable. The pre-installed dust boots protect the ball joints from contaminants. You’ll enjoy enhanced steering sensitivity, reduced body roll, and smoother rides over bumps, helping maintain proper alignment and reducing tire wear. The installation is straightforward, and the lifetime warranty on tubular arms and 12-month warranty on bushings give you peace of mind.
Best For: Owners of 1996-2003 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 or 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner 4WD looking for heavy-duty, high-quality upper control arms.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty heat-treated ball joints made from zinc-nickel alloy for longevity and enhanced range of motion
- PU bushings improve temperature handling, reduce noise, and can be replaced easily compared to rubber bushings
- Pre-installed dust boot protects ball joint from contaminants
Cons:
- Some users report maintenance challenges like squeaking after installation
- Installation may require alignment adjustments depending on individual vehicle setups
- Relatively expensive compared to other control arm options
KSP Front Upper Control Arm for Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Lexus GX
Constructed from durable forged aluminum, the KSP Front Upper Control Arm is the ideal choice for 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, and Lexus GX owners seeking a strong and reliable upgrade for their 2-4 inch lifted vehicles. The one-piece design eliminates weak points, ensuring exceptional strength. Featuring greasable sockets and heat-treated ball joint pins, this control arm minimizes wear and corrosion while delivering enhanced driving feedback. The polyurethane bushings withstand extreme temperatures, improving performance and reducing noise. With a 4.2-star rating and positive customer reviews, the KSP control arm provides the adaptability and durability needed for off-road adventures.
Best For: Lifted Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, and Lexus GX owners seeking a durable and reliable front upper control arm upgrade.
Pros:
- Forged aluminum construction for exceptional strength
- Greasable sockets and heat-treated ball joint pins for reduced wear and corrosion
- Polyurethane bushings that withstand extreme temperatures
Cons:
- Potential compatibility issues, ensure matching control arm designs
- Some concerns reported with ball joint attachment
- May require additional adjustments for proper installation
2-4in Lift Front Upper Control Arms for Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, Lexus GX
Those seeking a 2-4 inch lift for their Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, or Lexus GX will find the GPMMWPG Front Upper Control Arms an ideal solution. Designed for lift kits up to 4 inches, these CNC-machined and TIG-welded control arms offer superior strength and stability. The high-density rubber bushings dampen vibrations, ensuring a smooth, quiet ride. Installation is straightforward, with no drilling or cutting required, though alignment is recommended post-install. Paired with a 1.5″ wheel spacer or 0 offset wheels, you’ll enjoy enhanced safety and performance from your lifted rig.
Best For: Owners of Toyota 4Runner, FJ Cruiser, and Lexus GX vehicles seeking a 2-4 inch lift.
Pros:
- CNC-machined and TIG-welded for strength and stability
- High-density rubber bushings dampen vibrations and reduce noise
- Direct replacement for factory control arms, no drilling or cutting required
Cons:
- Requires at least 1.5″ thick wheel spacer or 0 offset aftermarket wheel to prevent tire rub
- Alignment recommended post-installation
- Product is made in China
Front Upper Control Arms for 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner
If you own a 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner, these front upper control arms are the ideal choice to enhance your vehicle’s handling and performance. Crafted from high-quality steel, they boast professional welding and CNC machining for superior durability. With a 2-4 inch lift capability, these control arms improve suspension shape and wheel travel, delivering enhanced steering and suspension performance. The 1.5-inch outside diameter and 0.16-inch wall thickness guarantee they can withstand harsh environments. DIY installation is made easy, and the included components simplify the process. With a 1-year warranty and responsive customer support, you can have peace of mind on the trail.
Best For: Owners of 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner seeking a lift kit to enhance their vehicle’s handling and performance.
Pros:
- Improves suspension shape and wheel travel for enhanced steering and suspension performance
- Constructed from high-quality steel with professional welding and CNC machining for superior durability
- Easy DIY installation with included components
Cons:
- May require alignment adjustments after installation
- Potential for increased road noise or vibration
- Relatively high cost compared to stock replacement parts
Front Upper Control Arms for 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner, 1995-2004 Toyota Tacoma, 2-4 Lift PU Bushings Tubular Arms, 2 Replacement Ball Joints, Wrinkle Red
If you’re looking to upgrade the front upper control arms on your lifted 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner or 1995-2004 Toyota Tacoma, these heavy-duty tubular arms are a great choice. Designed for 2-4 inch lift applications, they feature durable PU bushings and high-quality replacement ball joints for enhanced handling and responsiveness. The wrinkle red finish adds a stylish touch. With a 2-year warranty and positive customer feedback, these control arms are built to withstand the demands of lifted vehicles, ensuring reliable performance on and off-road.
Best For: Owners of 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner and 1995-2004 Toyota Tacoma models who have lifted their vehicles 2-4 inches and are looking to upgrade their front upper control arms.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction for strength and durability
- Enhanced handling and responsiveness with PU bushings and replacement ball joints
- Wrinkle red finish adds a stylish touch
Cons:
- Installation may pose some challenges for some users
- Higher cost compared to OEM control arms
- Specific to 2-4 inch lifted Toyota models, not suitable for other lift heights
Front Upper Control Arm Kit for Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner
Owners of Toyota Tacomas (1995-2004 4WD, 2000-2004 Pre Runner RWD) and 4Runners (1996-2002) seeking a durable, high-quality front upper control arm kit will find the HHCM Auto Parts offering an excellent choice. Constructed from premium materials, including stainless steel, alloy steel, and aluminum, this kit is built to last. The package includes one right and one left upper control arm, designed for easy installation with precision tolerances for proper steering alignment.
Backed by a 12-month warranty and customer service, this kit has earned a stellar 4.8-star rating from over two dozen customers. If you need a reliable upgrade for improved handling, consider the HHCM Front Upper Control Arm Kit for your Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner.
Best For: Toyota Tacoma (1995-2004 4WD, 2000-2004 Pre Runner RWD) and Toyota 4Runner (1996-2002) owners seeking a durable, high-quality front upper control arm kit.
Pros:
- Constructed from premium materials including stainless steel, alloy steel, and aluminum
- Designed for easy installation with precision tolerances for proper steering alignment
- Backed by a 12-month warranty and customer service
Cons:
- Limited to specific Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner models
- May require professional installation for proper alignment
- Higher priced than some competitor offerings
Factors to Consider When Choosing 3rd Gen 4runner Upper Control Arms
When selecting upper control arms for your 3rd Gen 4Runner, consider compatibility and proper fitment. Also, look for a lift capability range that suits your needs. Pay close attention to the construction, materials, bushing types, and ball joint specifications to guarantee long-lasting performance.
Compatibility and Fitment
Selecting the right upper control arms for your 3rd generation Toyota 4Runner is essential to guarantee a proper fit and maintain the integrity of your vehicle’s suspension. Verify the control arms are specifically designed for the 1996-2002 4Runner model to ensure correct fitment. Check if the control arms accommodate your suspension lift needs, typically 2-4 inches. Confirm compatibility with related models like the Tacoma and Prerunner, as they may have unique alignment requirements. Verify the material and structural quality to avoid installation troubles and performance issues. Consider customer feedback to identify potential compatibility concerns and verify a smooth installation process.
Lift Capability Range
The lift capability range is a significant consideration when selecting upper control arms for your 3rd gen 4Runner. Options typically accommodate lifts between 2 to 4 inches, and you must choose arms that match your planned lift height. Exceeding the recommended lift can lead to alignment issues and decreased handling performance. Increased lift capabilities often require enhanced materials and designs to handle additional stress and maintain driving stability. Proper alignment and compatibility are essential to guarantee your control arms function effectively within the desired lift range without compromising ride quality. Verify the selected arms complement your 4Runner’s existing suspension setup to optimize performance.
Construction and Materials
Because the construction and materials used in upper control arms are critical factors in determining their durability and performance, you’ll want to closely examine these characteristics when choosing components for your 3rd gen 4Runner. Look for high-strength materials like steel or forged aluminum, which provide exceptional durability under heavy loads. Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as CNC machining and professional welding, enhance the structural integrity and precision of the control arms, ensuring proper alignment and handling. Polyurethane bushings improve temperature resistance, reduce noise, and extend lifespan compared to traditional rubber. Greasable ball joints facilitate easier maintenance and reduce wear through regular lubrication.
Bushing Types and Durability
When choosing upper control arms for your 3rd gen 4Runner, the type and durability of the bushings are essential factors to evaluate. PU bushings offer superior wear resistance and reduced noise compared to rubber, enhancing ride quality. High-quality polyurethane can withstand extreme temperatures, making them more durable in varying conditions. Many arms feature greasable bushings, allowing for easier maintenance and longer lifespan by minimizing wear and preventing contamination. Consider the strength and construction quality of the bushings, as they play a critical role in maintaining alignment and handling during off-road use. Sealed or dust-protected ball joints can also improve durability and performance, preventing grease loss and damage from dirt and debris.
Ball Joint Specifications
Choosing the right ball joint specifications is essential when upgrading your 3rd gen 4Runner’s upper control arms. The ball joints enable a greater range of motion, which is vital for lifted vehicles. Look for heavy-duty ball joints made from zinc-nickel alloy with heat-treated pins for enhanced longevity and corrosion resistance. Many control arms come with pre-installed dust boots to protect the ball joints and prolong their lifespan. Greasable ball joints with Zerk fittings allow for regular maintenance and lubrication, preventing wear. The ball joint design can influence ride quality, steering sensitivity, and vehicle control, so choose control arms with high-performance ball joints tailored for your 3rd gen 4Runner’s specific lift application.
Installation Considerations
Verifying the compatibility of your 3rd Gen 4Runner’s upper control arms with its specific model year and lift height is crucial. Incorrect fitment can lead to alignment issues and functionality problems post-installation. The good news is that the installation typically requires no drilling or cutting, allowing for a direct replacement process that can be accomplished using standard hand tools and basic mechanical knowledge. It’s advisable to perform a wheel alignment after installation to guarantee ideal handling and tire wear, as the new control arms may alter suspension geometry. Look for pre-assembled control arms with ball joints for quicker installation and reduced downtime. Maintenance features like easily accessible grease fittings can simplify ongoing maintenance and enhance the longevity of the components.
Performance Enhancements
Upgrading the upper control arms on your 3rd Gen 4Runner can greatly enhance the vehicle’s performance, providing noticeable improvements in handling, stability, and ride quality. Aftermarket control arms often feature higher-quality ball joints that allow for a greater range of motion, which is essential during suspension lifts. Many options also come equipped with polyurethane bushings, which reduce noise and improve temperature handling for a smoother ride. Additionally, enhanced construction and design, including greasable fittings, can promote easy maintenance and extend the lifespan of your suspension components. These performance upgrades can lead to better alignment, reduced tire wear, and an overall more capable off-road driving experience.