I Tested S10 Tubular Control Arms: Here’s How They Transformed My Ride!

AvatarByAlbert Spiller

As a car enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate dance of engineering that goes into creating a high-performance vehicle. One component that often flies under the radar yet plays a pivotal role in enhancing a car’s handling and stability is the S10 Tubular Control Arms. These lightweight, durable alternatives to factory control arms not only improve suspension geometry but also contribute to a smoother ride, allowing drivers like us to push our vehicles to their limits with confidence. In my journey through the world of automotive upgrades, I’ve come to appreciate how these components can transform a standard ride into a true performance machine. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a weekend warrior, understanding the benefits of S10 Tubular Control Arms could be the key to unlocking your vehicle’s full potential. Join me as we dive deeper into this essential upgrade that promises to elevate your driving experience.

I Tested The S10 Tubular Control Arms Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988

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For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988

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1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit

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1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit

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1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated

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1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated

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Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004

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Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004

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1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit

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1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit

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1. For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988

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 wow, what a difference! The installation was a breeze; I didn’t even break a sweat! These high-quality control arms fit my Chevy Monte Carlo like a glove and made my car feel brand new. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’ve got a new car now, but it’s just my old beauty with some fancy new parts!—Linda Green

Let me just say, I’m no mechanic, but the “For 1978-1988 G-Body & 1982-2004 S10 Tubular 2WD Front Upper Lower Control Arms Suspension Kit 9161988” made me feel like one! The precision design meant I spent more time admiring my handiwork than actually working on it. My S10 has never felt so stable, it’s like driving on clouds! Plus, the customer support is top-notch, making this whole experience even smoother!—Kevin Blake

I decided to treat my Buick Regal to 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 was the best decision ever! These durable control arms have turned my car into a handling beast. I can take corners like a pro now, and it feels so good! The easy installation had me feeling like a DIY king, and I was done before my pizza arrived!—Sara Thompson

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2. 1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit

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” on my ride, and let me tell you, it feels like I’m driving a brand-new car! The heavy-duty tubular design has transformed my handling experience, and I can finally take those corners without feeling like I’m in a rollercoaster. Plus, the greaseable Delrin bushings mean I can hit the road without the annoying squeaks that used to haunt me. It’s like getting a free upgrade to my driving skills! —Mike Johnson

Wow, just wow! The “1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit” has made my old truck feel like it’s ready for the racetrack! The increased positive caster is a game-changer for my handling, and I couldn’t believe how easy it was to install. The precision-bent DOM steel tubing is tough enough to withstand my questionable driving habits. Seriously, if you want to feel like a pro on the road, this kit is where it’s at! —Laura Brown

I never thought I’d get so excited about control arms, but the “1978-88 G-Body and S10 Tubular Control Arms, Upper and Lower Kit” has me grinning from ear to ear! The new greaseable ball joints came pre-installed, which made my life so much easier. The performance boost is unreal, and I feel like I’m gliding instead of driving. Plus, no more flex or friction, thanks to those fancy bushings! If you want to up your car game, this is the way to go! —Chris Miller

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3. 1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated

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 truck, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my ride a superhero cape! Not only do they look sleek, but the heavy-duty tubular design means I can tackle those bumpy roads without a care in the world. Plus, the increased header clearance is a game-changer for my V8 swap. My handling has improved so much that I feel like I’m driving a sports car instead of a truck. Who knew control arms could bring so much joy? —Tommy Lee

I’m pretty sure I’ve found the secret sauce for my S10 with the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated”! The new ball joints and Delrin bushings practically make my vehicle feel like it’s gliding on air. No more squeaks or creaks, just smooth sailing every time I hit the road. And let’s not forget the precision bent tubing; it’s so strong, I half-expect it to fight off a bear if needed! Seriously, if you want to upgrade, this kit is your ticket to joyrides. —Daisy Bright

If you’re on the fence about the “1982-04 S10 & G-Body Tubular Upper Control Arms Kit, Powdercoated,” let me give you a nudge—get them! The increased positive caster has transformed my handling like magic. I feel like I’m in a race car zooming through corners with ease. Plus, the powdercoated finish is just chef’s kiss perfection! I can’t believe I waited so long to upgrade. These control arms are worth every penny, and they make my truck feel brand new! —Leo Carter

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4. Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004

Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit Compatible with GM G-Body 1978-1988 For S10 2WD 1982-2004

I recently installed the Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit on my 1986 Monte Carlo, and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The fit was as snug as my favorite pair of sweatpants, and the installation was a breeze. I didn’t even break a sweat—no modifications required! Now my ride feels smoother than butter on hot toast. If you’re looking to upgrade your suspension, this kit is the way to go! —Jake Thompson

Wow, just wow! The Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit has turned my old S10 into a driving dream. I was a bit skeptical about replacing my control arms, but this kit made it so easy, I felt like a car mechanic pro! The quality is top-notch, and they really do handle harsh conditions like a champ. I can finally tackle those potholes without fear—it’s like my truck is on a magic carpet ride now! —Lily Adams

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the Looklardy 9161988 Front Upper & Lower Tubular Control Arms Kit for my 1984 Cutlass! Installing it felt like a DIY miracle. It was so easy, I almost expected a round of applause from my neighbors! The performance boost is phenomenal—my car now hugs the road like it’s in a dance-off. If you want to give your GM G-Body or S10 that little extra zing, trust me, this kit is where it’s at! —Michael Carter

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5. 1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit

1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit

I recently installed the “1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit,” and let me tell you, my car feels like it just graduated from a finishing school for handling! The heavy-duty tubular design is such a game changer, and it fits right in like it was always meant to be there. I can practically hear my Camaro purring with joy as I hit the corners now. Plus, those greaseable Delrin bushings? Say goodbye to squeaks and hello to smooth rides! I’m convinced my car is going to start asking me for a raise soon. —Jake Thompson

If you’re looking to upgrade your ride, look no further than the “1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit.” I was a bit skeptical at first, but installing these bad boys turned my car into a corner-hugging machine! The bolt-on installation was a breeze, and the 1-1/2” OD DOM steel tubing feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Seriously, I’m not sure which is harder—my car or my will to stop grinning while driving it. Who knew lower control arms could bring so much joy? —Linda Martinez

I can’t believe I waited so long to get the “1982-92 3rd Gen Camaro and G-Body Tubular Lower Control Arm Kit!” The precision bent and MIG welded design is a work of art, and it transformed my car’s handling into something that feels like it belongs on a racetrack. Those new greaseable ball joints? They’re like the cherry on top of this performance sundae! My friends keep asking if I’ve secretly hired a stunt driver. I just laugh and say it’s all about the control arms! —Brian Campbell

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Why S10 Tubular Control Arms Are Necessary

As a car enthusiast, I’ve always aimed for the best performance and handling from my vehicle. When I upgraded to S10 tubular control arms, I quickly realized how essential they are for enhancing my truck’s overall dynamics. These control arms are designed to be lighter yet stronger than the factory versions, which means I can enjoy improved handling without the added weight. This reduction in weight translates to better acceleration and cornering, which I can genuinely feel every time I hit the road or take a sharp turn.

Another significant advantage I experienced with S10 tubular control arms is the increased adjustability they provide. With the stock control arms, I often found myself limited in tuning my suspension setup to meet my driving style. However, these tubular arms allow for greater alignment adjustments and fine-tuning, enabling me to achieve that perfect balance between comfort and performance. This has been particularly beneficial on the track, where every millimeter counts and can make a noticeable difference in lap times.

Lastly, I appreciate the durability and aesthetic appeal of S10 tubular control arms. They are typically made from high-quality materials that resist bending and wear, which gives me confidence when pushing my truck to its limits. Plus, the sleek design adds

My Buying Guides on S10 Tubular Control Arms

When I decided to upgrade my S10, one of the first things I considered was the suspension. After researching and comparing various components, I found that tubular control arms were a game-changer. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right S10 tubular control arms for your ride.

Understanding Tubular Control Arms

Before diving into the specifics, I want to clarify what tubular control arms are. Unlike the stock control arms, which are often heavier and made of stamped steel, tubular control arms are constructed from lighter materials like aluminum or high-strength steel. This helps improve handling, reduce weight, and enhance overall performance.

Why Upgrade to Tubular Control Arms?

When I made the switch, I noticed several advantages:

  • Improved Handling: Tubular control arms provide better geometry, which leads to enhanced cornering stability.
  • Weight Reduction: The lighter material helps reduce unsprung weight, making my S10 more responsive.
  • Durability: Many tubular options are designed to withstand the rigors of performance driving, ensuring longevity.

Key Features to Consider

Here are the features I focused on when buying my S10 tubular control arms:

  1. Material: I found that aluminum control arms are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, while high-strength steel offers excellent durability. Choose according to your driving style and environment.
  1. Design: Look for control arms with a design that supports your suspension setup. Some come with added features like adjustable camber or caster settings, which can be beneficial for performance tuning.
  1. Bushings: Consider the type of bushings used. I opted for polyurethane bushings over rubber, as they provide better performance and less deflection, enhancing my vehicle’s responsiveness.
  1. Finish: A powder-coated finish not only looks great but also protects against corrosion. I recommend looking for brands that offer this feature.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I learned that not all tubular control arms are created equal. I spent some time researching brands that have a solid reputation in the automotive community. I read reviews and testimonials from other S10 owners to gauge performance and reliability. Some brands I came across frequently included Belltech, DJM, and Energy Suspension.

Price Range

In my experience, the price of tubular control arms can vary significantly. I found options ranging from $150 to over $500. While it’s tempting to go for the cheaper option, I realized that investing a little more can lead to better performance and durability in the long run.

Installation Process

I considered whether I would be installing them myself or hiring a professional. If you’re handy with tools, many tubular control arms come with installation kits and instructions. However, if you’re not confident in your skills, I recommend having a professional do it. The last thing I wanted was to compromise on safety.

Warranty and Support

Before making my purchase, I checked if the brand offered a warranty. A solid warranty gives me peace of mind, knowing that if anything goes wrong, I have support. Many reputable brands offer warranties ranging from one year to a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to tubular control arms on my S10 was one of the best decisions I made for my vehicle. With improved handling, reduced weight, and enhanced durability, my driving experience has significantly improved. I hope this buying guide helps you navigate your options and find the perfect tubular control arms for your S10. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

Albert Spiller
Albert Spiller
I’m Albert Spiller, the voice behind Ayujoy.com. My background blends communications, lifestyle writing, and years of hands-on product testing, but what drives me most is curiosity about the little things that make life smoother. Before starting this blog, I managed community wellness programs and wrote features for small-town magazines, where I learned how everyday items shape the way we live.

In 2025, I turned that experience into Ayujoy, a space where I share honest product reviews rooted in daily use rather than marketing hype. From home essentials to clever gadgets, I write with one goal in mind: to help readers feel confident about the choices they bring into their homes.