RE: Front Lower Control Arms/Ball Joints on 2nd Generation Rx-7's. Specifically, 1991. The lower control arm and ball joint appear to be 1 piece. Mazda wants well over $600 each side!. Does anyone know of a replacement / refurbisher, etc., or another parts source that's a bit more reasonable? I've driven nothing but 2nd generation Rx-7's since I bought a new one in '87, put 175k miles on it; then bought a used '91 from GA, (I'm a Pittsburgher) and now have 160k on it, . . but it's clean & solid, and a still pleasure to to carve up on-ramps with. Thanks!

 

I thought only S4 had replaceable parts, and your S5 is all one assembly. I'm not sure about interchangeability. I would source them used from someone on the forum here that's parting out a car before giving the dealer $600

 

I would see if the lower control arms from a S4 car would fit. I can't see why they wouldn't, but I've never gotten a good look at the S5 setup. Then you're ball joints would be replaceable, and they are very easy to do.

 

S4 is interchangable with the S5. Thats what im running in my racecar. I like the idea of replacable parts.
Thanks Robert

 

Yeah, get some S4s. I have a set ready to go for when my currently installed S5s go.

 

Thanks for the Suggestion.

 

Then see energizer bushings to rebuild them and replace the ball joints

 

THANKS. At the risk of sounding like a complete doofus. . . . . . Apparently I've lived a sheltered life. What is the difference between S4, and the S5? From the posts, apparently my '91 is an S5. (Is that the same as Gen 1 & Gen 2?) I hate to assume anything. MANY THANKS

 

S5 means that is the series of your engine and car. S4 is 86-88 S5 is 89-92 and S6 is 93-02.

The differences are listed in the FAQ. Mainly it was motor, electronics, and visual differences between them.

 

id have to agree go with energizer bushings or even cheaper go with a new control arm off the for sale forum

 

Thanks to all for the great info.