Stock control arms: Steel or aluminum?

[Robert.jean1]

The design of either has zero difference the only concept of a lighter product is for overall weight savings/ fuel economy. Neither will perform their functions better than the other.

[Spurshot]

The design of either has zero difference the only concept of a lighter product is for overall weight savings/ fuel economy. Neither will perform their functions better than the other.

 

If the weight savings was minimal, I would agree. However, I read a number somewhere that would make me believe that there is a relatively significant weight savings which reduces unsprung weight. Just like lighter tires and wheels, lower unsprung weight allows the suspension to move faster, change directions easier, etc..

[Robert.jean1]

Because I am a fair debater. This is taken from GM writings as they broadcast their new model of Sierra.

 

All Sierra 1500 models 2WD and 4WD feature a coil-over-shock independent front suspension design, with forged aluminum upper control arms and cast-aluminum lower control arms on select models. They are 23 pounds lighter and 10 percent stiffer than comparable steel components.

[nadrojcote]

Less flex and lighter, I was surprised with how light they are when I replaced mine. GM was really just trying to reduce unsprung weight like spurshot said.

[Raiderse]

mine are Aluminum ez to tell , not painted

[CptMcSaug]

2015 Silverado LTZ Z71, Short bed, 4x4..................steel

[2004lebanshee]

2015 Silverado LT2 z71, crew, short bed, 4x4, Aluminum upper and lower.

[afireinside7444]

2015 CC Z71 Short bed 5.3 3.08 rear. Aluminum upper and lowers

[crushNchowda]

mine are Aluminum ez to tell , not painted

Mine are AL and they're painted black.

[CptMcSaug]

Mine are AL and they're painted black.

 

REally? well shit I need to get a magnet then lol

[txchevy4ever]

Mine are unpainted and AL...

 

2015 LTZ Z71 4x4 Crew Cab Short Bed

[sailor9908]

If they are black in color then you have the steel. If not they are aluminum. Or just grab a magnet and find out

 

 

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[only1adam12]

Looking at the pic, It is aluminum. the steel components are usually painted black. like someone said previously, use a magnet to tell. I have a 2015 LTZ, Z71 and it had aluminum. I bought the truck with a 6" Fabtech lift which uses the original aluminum control arms. I have 9k miles on it and seeing significant wear in the front steering bump-stops. Having trouble with my outer tire over-steering and think this may be the root cause. Fabtech says it's normal but i''ve never seen something like this be "normal" especially after only 9k miles. Anyway, hope this helps..

 

[steelcity]

2016 slt crew cab 6'6" bed and mine are steel

[muddkatt]

2015 LTZ 2wd, Z60 - steel