The Racer X Fabrication front lower control arm ball joints for the 2013+ Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ / Toyota GT86 are designed to be a direct replacement for the OEM ball joint (20206CA000). The OEM ball joint is no longer available for sale from Subaru, if you have to replace your ball joint it now requires that you purchase the whole control arm. The starting cost for one control arm is around $185.00, with typical service life around 30,000 miles, that can get expensive. We decided to take this project on and started by tearing apart the OEM ball joint to get a better understanding of how to improve it.

 

CONSTRUCTION

The Racer X Fabrication ball joint uses a larger diameter and thicker polymer lining to increase wear resistance and provide longevity. We CNC machine the ball joint stud to tight tolerances and then highly polish the ball to reduce friction at the lining. The ball stud cup is CNC machined to an exact OEM measurement to ensure it will be compatible with OEM specifications for a perfect press fit into the front lower control arms. The ball joint assembly is completed with a rubber boot to prevent dust and debris from entering the ball stud and lining. The Racer X Fabrication also features a grease zirc that allows lubricant to be replenished which enhances service life.