Question on replacing Control Arms with NOS Vema parts

[satufiat]

I acquired a 1981 2000 last month, included with the deal was a set of new(in a box), unused Control Arms, Upper and lower. These are VEMA Control Arms with bushings and ball joints.

One of my problems is I tend to 'over research' everything I do, and in researching Control Arm installation/replacement I've come across a few posts about failures of new Ball Joints, specifically in the late '90's. So I'm seeking general consensus of opinion on what I should do...

These Control Arms have a stamped date code of 28/99. Do you think I should just install these as is or would it be wise to drill out and replace the Ball Joints? I know were not talking about a lot of money, but I must be frugal where it makes sense to.

I have never found a post that specifically stated a date or brand with a problem, but you guys out there have the experience and knowledge.

No grease fittings installed; should drill and tap for fittings or just use a 'needle' grease gun to go through the boot?


Opinions, Comments or smart remarks are welcome. Thanks, Bob.

[djape1977]

and why would you replace ball joints?

[satufiat]

and why would you replace ball joints?

I've read the there was a batch of bad 'new' ball joints in the 1997-1999 time period. The date code on these a-arms is 28/99, which I am assuming means week 28 of 1999.

I guess, I can just go ahead and install them... maybe the failure rate wasn't all that bad.

I was just hoping someone out there may have some knowledge of the potential problem. ...It has been over 16 years... and I heard about it on the internet...

[DieselSpider]

I would also be concern over the 17 year old rubber bushings and boots. Rubber products break down even when stored under the best of conditions and a 17 year old rubber bushing or boot is not usually going to hold up very well unless they were stored shielded from strong light in a cool dry conditioned space far from electrical wires, transformers and motors.

[RRoller123]

+1. Ozone naturally found in air destroys the rubber over time.

[satufiat]

Thanks for the replies. Upon inspection the new (old Stock) bushings and boots are in like new condition. The covers are on the boots and they were given to me in what appears the original shipping box. I guess we really don't ever know how long our vendors have things sitting on the shelf in their shops or a prior warehouse. If I didn't know about date codes , I would suspect these were brand new.

Much better condition than what is currently on the car. Pics below.

Maybe current plan... Install these and rebuild the old frames, watching for possible fast deterioration of the bushings.

[DieselSpider]

You may want to replace the rubber boots on the ball joints before you install them while its easy to take care of.