Optimum control arm angles

[GMracer]

So I'm setting up a chassis right now for a truck, and with a ride height of 4-5" I would like to raise the control arms, I was thinking keep them both parallel to the ground at ride height?

[ccracin]

Are you talking about the lower control arms or the uppers or both? It's best to look at the complete front end as a system not just components. If we assume you are talking about the lower control arms, be careful about keeping them "Level" to the ground. What you want to pay attention to is the line between the center of the inner control arm mount and the center of the ball in the lower ball joint. Many lower control arms are made to accomodate different spring setups etc. The tubes or steel connecting these 2 points I mentioned may not really be level when that imaginary line is. That imaginary line is what is important. Although holding it level without looking at the rest of the system isn't going to get you far. When starting to look at a frontend I do like to start with those lower imaginary lines level and build my geometry from there. Sorry for being wordy, but if you are into it this deep you should do as much research as possible. I recommend the book "Chassis Engineering" by Herb Adams. It will give you a great start. Good Luck.

[GMracer]

sorry about that, yes I did mean both the arms, and I figured the imaginary lines would be my starting point, I just was curious if they should both (upper and lower) be level to the ground or should they be at different angles. My uppers are shorter than my lowers which I was told was alright, and from reading seems to be fine, so I've moved onto the question of how they should lay at ride height. Any help is appreciated, thanks man!

EDIT: just ordered that book off amazon, thanks for the heads up on a good book!

[ccracin]

I will say absolutely they should not all be level. Before we go any deeper, give that book a read and you will have a great head start.

[GMracer]

hmm I always thought the arms should sit at the same plane at ride height, but I will do. Should have the book by the weekend hopefully.