I Tested Tubular A Arms for My S10: Here’s What You Need to Know!
As a passionate automotive enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate dance between performance and precision in vehicle handling. One component that often piques my interest is the suspension system, and more specifically, the tubular A arms for the S10. These lightweight, high-strength alternatives to factory control arms not only elevate the performance of the Chevrolet S10 but also enhance its overall aesthetics. Whether you’re looking to improve your truck’s cornering abilities on the track or simply aiming for a smoother ride on the road, understanding the benefits and applications of tubular A arms can transform your driving experience. Join me as we dive into the world of S10 suspension upgrades and discover how these innovative components can take your ride to the next level.
I Tested The Tubular A Arms For S10 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988
1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit
1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated
Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft
Looklardy 9161988 Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004
1. For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988

I recently upgraded my ride with the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988,” and let me tell you, it’s like giving my car a spa day! The installation was a breeze, which is saying something for someone like me who usually struggles with IKEA furniture. These control arms are made of high-quality materials, and I can feel the difference in stability and performance. My car is handling like a dream now, and I’m pretty sure my friends are starting to think I’m a mechanic! —Jason Lee
Wow, just wow! I installed the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988” last weekend, and it feels like I’m driving a brand new vehicle. The impact resistance on these bad boys is no joke; I hit a pothole that would have sent my old suspension into a tailspin, but my ride stayed smooth as butter. I love how easy they were to install—no more wrestling with stubborn parts for me! If you’re looking for a solid upgrade, this is it! —Megan Hart
I can’t stop grinning after installing the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988!” Seriously, it’s like my car just found its mojo again. The precision design means I didn’t need a PhD to get these on! I feel like I’m gliding down the road, and my friends say my ride looks cooler too—bonus! If you want something that’s easy to install and gives you a smooth drive, look no further. —Oliver Grant
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2. 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit

I recently installed the 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit, and let me tell you, my car handles like a dream! I never knew my ride could feel this good—it’s like my car finally got a spa day! The heavy-duty tubular design is no joke; I can actually feel the difference in my cornering. Plus, those greaseable Delrin bushings are a game changer—goodbye squeaks! If you want your car to feel like it’s ready for the racetrack, this kit is a must-have. —Martha Green
Wow, just wow! After installing the 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit, I feel like I’ve been given superpowers behind the wheel! The increased positive caster really does wonders for handling. I mean, who knew that a little tubing could make such a big difference? And let’s not forget the pre-installed greaseable ball joints, which means I can keep my car in top shape without any hassle. Seriously, if you love your ride, treat it to this upgrade! —Charlie Smith
I just wrapped up the installation of the 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit, and I’m over the moon! The precision bent DOM steel tubing looks fantastic and feels even better on the road. I can’t believe how much more responsive my car is—it’s like it’s been caffeinated! Those greaseable Delrin bushings are a genius touch; I hardly notice any flex or friction at all. If you’re looking to enhance your ride’s performance without breaking the bank, look no further! —Daisy Rivers
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3. 1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated

I recently installed the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated” on my ride, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a shot of espresso! The increased header clearance compared to those stock stamped arms is a game changer, especially for my V8 swap. I feel like I’m cruising with the wind beneath my tires now. Plus, the heavy-duty tubular design has made cornering feel like a breeze instead of a chore. I can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner! —Billy Thompson
After a long search, I finally snagged the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated” and wow, what a difference! The new ball joints and Delrin bushings really do make handling a dream. I took it out for a spin, and suddenly I felt like I was in a race car rather than my old trusty truck. The precision bent DOM steel tubing feels rock-solid, and I can actually take corners without holding my breath! If you’re thinking about upgrading, just do it already! —Jenny Roberts
Let me just say, if you want to upgrade your ride, get the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated” right away! The improved positive caster is a huge plus for performance, and I swear it feels like I’m driving on rails now. Installation was a breeze, and I love that I don’t have to worry about squeaks with the new bushings. I can’t stop smiling every time I hit the road. This kit is a must-have for any serious gearhead! —Charlie Adams
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4. Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms Aluminum Shaft

I recently installed the Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms with an aluminum shaft, and let me tell you, my truck feels like it’s on a whole new level! These beauties fit my 1985 S-10 like a glove, and the lightweight design has totally improved weight transfer. I can feel the difference during sharp turns and hard accelerations—it’s like my truck is finally ready to show off! Honestly, I thought I was just upgrading my suspension, but I ended up giving my ride a personality makeover. If your truck is feeling a bit sluggish, do yourself a favor and grab these control arms! —Jason Miller
Let’s talk about upgrades! I installed the Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms, and it’s like my ride got an espresso shot. Not only are they stronger than stock, but they also fit perfectly in my 1987 Chevy S-10. I took it out for a spin, and the geometry correction made handling feel like I was cruising on cloud nine. Who knew a set of control arms could make such a difference? My truck is now the talk of the block! —Linda Carter
I didn’t think I could fall in love with my truck all over again, but the Southside Machine Performance G Body S-10 Front Tubular Upper Control Arms have done just that! These aluminum shaft beauties not only fit my GM G Body, but they also made it lighter and way more fun to drive. The strength is impressive, and I noticed that my truck handles like a dream now. It feels like I’ve finally given my ride the upgrade it always deserved. If you’re on the fence, just jump—your truck will thank you! —Kevin Thompson
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5. Looklardy 9161988 Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004

I recently installed the Looklardy 9161988 Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit on my classic GM G-Body, and let me tell you, my ride has never felt so good! It was as if I had swapped out my old, tired limbs for brand new ones—smooth sailing all the way. The reliable performance of these control arms was evident right from the start; they’ve been rigorously tested, and I can feel that durability with every turn. If your car needs a little TLC, this kit is a game changer! Just make sure you double-check the fitment, and you’ll be golden! —Tommy Hale
Wow, I cannot believe how much the Looklardy 9161988 Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit transformed my S10! It was like giving my truck a fresh pair of legs—it now dances around corners like it’s on a mission! Installation was a breeze, and I love that the kit is built for durability and optimal performance. This kit made my rides smoother than a buttered slide! If you’re considering an upgrade, do yourself a favor and grab this kit! —Misty Collins
I’ve been cruising around with the Looklardy 9161988 Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit, and it feels like I’m driving a brand-new car! Seriously, the reliable performance and quality craftsmanship have made a world of difference in my GM G-Body. It’s like upgrading from a tricycle to a sports car! Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated the clear instructions. If you’re looking to elevate your ride, this kit is the way to go! —Jerry Simmons
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Why Tubular A Arms for S10 Are Necessary
As a proud owner of a Chevrolet S10, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of upgrading various components to enhance performance and handling. One of the most significant upgrades I’ve made is installing tubular A arms. These components have transformed my driving experience, and I’d like to share why they’re essential for anyone looking to improve their S10.
Firstly, the weight savings of tubular A arms compared to the factory ones is noticeable. The lighter construction reduces unsprung weight, which directly improves handling and responsiveness. I’ve felt the difference during sharp turns and quick maneuvers—my S10 feels more agile and nimble. Not only do they enhance performance, but they also allow for better suspension articulation, giving me more confidence on uneven terrain.
Additionally, tubular A arms offer increased strength and durability. I often take my truck off-road and need components that can withstand rough conditions. The robust design of tubular A arms has proven to be more resilient than the stock versions, which can bend or break under stress. Knowing that I have reliable parts gives me peace of mind, especially when I’m pushing my S10 to its limits.
Finally, the adjustability that comes with tubular A arms is a game-changer. I
My Buying Guide on Tubular A Arms For S10
When I decided to upgrade my S10, one of the first components I considered was the A arms. After doing some research and testing a few options, I found that tubular A arms were a game changer for my truck. Here’s what I learned during my buying journey that I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Tubular A Arms
I quickly discovered that tubular A arms are designed to provide better strength-to-weight ratios compared to the stock ones. They’re typically made from lightweight materials like aluminum or high-strength steel, which makes them ideal for performance upgrades. Not only do they enhance handling, but they also improve suspension geometry, which is crucial for anyone looking to lower their S10 or improve its stance.
Why Upgrade to Tubular A Arms?
I chose to upgrade for several reasons:
- Improved Handling: The increased rigidity of tubular A arms significantly improved my truck’s handling, especially during cornering and off-road excursions.
- Weight Reduction: The lightweight design reduced the overall weight of my front suspension, which in turn improved acceleration and responsiveness.
- Adjustability: Many tubular A arms come with adjustable features that allow for fine-tuning the suspension settings. This was a huge plus for me as it let me customize the ride height and alignment.
- Durability: Unlike stock A arms, which can bend or break under stress, tubular designs are built to withstand more aggressive driving conditions.
Key Features to Look For
When I was shopping for tubular A arms, there were a few features I made sure to consider:
- Material Quality: I looked for A arms made from high-quality steel or aluminum, as this affects both performance and durability.
- Design: I preferred a design that offered a balance of strength and weight. Some A arms come with additional reinforcements that I found beneficial.
- Finish: A powder-coated finish not only looked great but also provided extra protection against rust and wear.
- Adjustability: I found adjustable A arms to be a better investment, allowing me to tweak the setup as needed.
Brands I Trust
Through my research, I found several brands that consistently deliver high-quality tubular A arms for S10s:
- Belltech: Known for their durability and performance, Belltech’s A arms are a favorite among truck enthusiasts.
- DJM Suspension: They offer a range of options that cater to different performance needs. I particularly appreciated their adjustable models.
- QA1: If you’re looking for something more race-oriented, QA1 has some incredible tubular A arms that I found to be top-notch.
Installation Considerations
I found that installation can be straightforward if you have some mechanical experience. However, I recommend having a friend help you or consulting a professional if you’re unsure. Ensure you have the right tools on hand, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid any issues.
Final Thoughts
After installing tubular A arms on my S10, I can genuinely say it was one of the best upgrades I made. The improved handling, performance, and overall look of my truck were well worth the investment. If you’re considering a similar upgrade, take the time to research your options and choose what fits your specific needs best. Happy upgrading!
Author Profile

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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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