What Does the Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Do? The rear trailing arm bushing is a rubber-or-polyurethane-isolated pivot point that connects the rear trailing arm to the vehicle’s subframe or chassis. On Honda Civic platforms—particularly the EG (1992–1995), EK (1996–2000), and EM/EP (2001–2005) generations—this bushing allows the trailing arm to pivot vertically as the suspension cycles,…
What Is a Drop Spindle? A drop spindle—also called a dropped steering knuckle or lowered spindle—is an aftermarket suspension component designed to lower your vehicle’s front ride height without altering spring rates, shock travel, or factory suspension geometry. Here’s how it works: the spindle pin (the point where your wheel hub and bearings mount) is…
What Are Coil Spring Spacers? Coil spring spacers are aftermarket lift components designed to raise your vehicle’s ride height by inserting a spacer between the coil spring and the spring perch. Unlike full suspension lift kits that replace your entire coil spring, spacers work with your factory springs to provide a cost-effective leveling or mild…
Lower control arm bushings are the unsung heroes of your vehicle’s suspension system. These small rubber or polyurethane components absorb road shocks, dampen vibrations, and allow the controlled movement that makes driving comfortable. When they wear out, everything from ride quality to handling precision suffers. Replacing lower control arm bushings is one of the most…
Bushing sleeves are the metal inner cylinders around which rubber or polyurethane bushings are mounted. These sleeves press into control arms, suspension components, and various mechanical assemblies, providing a hard inner surface for pivot points and mounting locations. Over time, bushings deteriorate and need replacement—but before you can install new bushings, you must first remove…
Lowering blocks are one of the most popular and cost-effective methods for dropping the rear end of a vehicle equipped with a leaf spring suspension. Whether you’re building a street machine, creating a mean-looking truck, or simply wanting that aggressive stance that turns heads, lowering blocks offer a straightforward solution. The installation process, while straightforward,…
Every vehicle on the road relies on a sophisticated system of components to connect the wheels to the chassis while allowing controlled movement. The lower control arm is one of the most critical components in this system, yet many drivers have no idea what it does or why it matters. Understanding what a lower control…
The Small Block Chevrolet engine—commonly referred to as the SBC—is one of the most popular and versatile engines ever produced. Since its introduction in 1955, the SBC has powered everything from family sedans to race cars, from light trucks to offshore powerboats. With such widespread application, it’s natural to wonder: are all SBC motor mounts…
Bending brake lines is a fundamental skill for anyone working on automotive brake systems. Whether you’re replacing damaged sections, installing new brake lines during a restoration, or routing lines for an aftermarket brake upgrade, knowing how to bend 3/16 brake line correctly ensures proper brake system function and safety. The 3/16 inch brake line is…
Control arms are the load-bearing connections between your vehicle’s chassis and its wheels. They control wheel position, manage suspension geometry, and absorb the forces that travel through the chassis during acceleration, braking, and cornering. When you upgrade to upper tubular control arms, you’re replacing the factory stamped-steel or composite arms with precision-engineered tubular steel or…