Calgary Jeep Association

4x4 Related Groups => Tech Talk => Topic started by: WhipperBilly on June 13, 2016, 02:21:57 AM

Title: TJ 2003 Front Axle - Suspension Broken
Post by: WhipperBilly on June 13, 2016, 02:21:57 AM

The front lower suspension arm on the driver's side has become separated from the axle tube. The welded mount has been torn off the axle tube with part left on the axle tube and part attached to the lower suspension. The axle tube itself looks ok. The bracket with the bolt is still attached to the lower suspension.

Can it be safely re-welded back on? (I'm not a welder)

Can the axle tube on the right hand side be replaced easily?

Does the whole axle have to be replaced?

Would there be an issue with the cam adjuster?

Would there be a problem getting parts?

I have a picture. Just need to figure out how to attach it.

http://s53.photobucket.com/user/WhipperBilly/media/TJ%202003%20Front%20Axle%20Tube%20Lower%20Suspension_zpss6w8xcfr.jpg.html?sort=3&o=0

Title: Re:
Post by: dubbleJs on June 13, 2016, 09:40:52 AM

Host your photo on photobucket and link it to here with the IMG tags. Yes it can be welded back onto the tube if its not too mangled, if not a new lca bracket may be needed

Title: Re: TJ 2003 Front Axle - Suspension Broken
Post by: Dingleberry on June 13, 2016, 10:25:21 AM

Sounds like lower control arm bracket, indeed the factory ones are prone to bending/cracking. Personally I have seen it happen a few times.

Yes it can be safely re-welded (You're best bet is to replace with better brackets though).

No need to replace the axle tube.

On my XJ's Dana30, I went with a new pair of brackets from Iron Rock Off Road, but can't for the life of me find a link to them. They're made of much thicker metal than the stock brackets are.
A quick google search and I found these, which look even better, as they also have a built-in skid plate on the bottom for extra protection:
http://www.artecindustries.com/TJ-3044-HD-Lower-Control-Arm-Brackets-pair_p_372.html (http://www.artecindustries.com/TJ-3044-HD-Lower-Control-Arm-Brackets-pair_p_372.html)
And yes they ship to Canada!

Title: Re: TJ 2003 Front Axle - Suspension Broken
Post by: WhipperBilly on June 13, 2016, 10:40:31 AM

Picture link posted

dubbleJs and Dingleberry - thanks for your help

Looks like I need new brackets and then I'll try to find someone to mount/weld them

Title: Re: TJ 2003 Front Axle - Suspension Broken
Post by: morerpmfred on June 13, 2016, 10:58:42 AM

E mortal has brackets in stock.

Title: Re: TJ 2003 Front Axle - Suspension Broken
Post by: EEP on June 14, 2016, 11:22:56 PM

Or get Raf to make you a set lol.