Roadster: Can I shim upper control arm?

[hrosenthal]

I'm not loving how the end nut on one of my upper control arms is rubbing (and scratched) the frame (see photos).
I was thinking of putting shims between the control arm to create some clearance.
Is this a safe option?
Will it cause any problems in the future?
Is there any special shim I need for this?


As long as we are on the subject, are the end nuts supposed to be tightened (see photo).

Thanks,
H
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[Jason Lavigne]

Hi H,

It's not optimal to put a shim in there, although it wouldn't necessarily be bad (as long as it's even/parallel and precise so that the arm sits properly). Can you trim the F panel at all? That would be your best bet - and even a very tight amount of clearance is ok there.

As far as tightening the nuts on the ends, I do think you'll need to do that, but be careful not to overtighten and bind up the pivot. I'd tighten them enough so that there's no play left, and maybe even go a quarter turn after that. Make sure they're greased, too.

Hope that helps,

Jason @ FFR

[Jason Lavigne]

Click here (http://www.factoryfive.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Mk4-Coupe-Front-Upper-Arm-Tech.pdf) for a slightly more detailed image w/info on installing and maintaining the arm:


- Jason @ FFR

[hrosenthal]

Hi H,

It's not optimal to put a shim in there, although it wouldn't necessarily be bad (as long as it's even/parallel and precise so that the arm sits properly). Can you trim the F panel at all? That would be your best bet - and even a very tight amount of clearance is ok there.


The problem isn't the F Panel, it's the frame. The control arms seem to have changed recently in that they are different than the ones at the build school (and other members of the forum). The lock nut shafts extend farther than the older version.

I am assuming that I have the correct UCA in the first place.

Thanks,
Howard