Trailing arm question

**00RedfireGT** · 09-12-2015

Years ago I bought a GMPP package that included the tubular trailing arms, I had serious trouble getting the old ones off so I didn’t do it. Recently I replaced the rear sway and decided to install these arms. It was a PITA to get the old ones off. I realize the factory ones are stamped steel and the new ones are tubular. I am wondering what the purpose of the trailing arm is and what is the improvement of the new tubular ones?

**ItHurtz** · 09-12-2015

take the trailing arm off and kick your tire, your answer will follow

**FordMan77** · 09-12-2015

The trailing arms keeps the rear tires straight with the body so the car tracks straight. The tubular arms reduce the flex that the factory ones likely have thus giving you a more stable ride especially during cornering/turning.

**00RedfireGT** · 09-12-2015

Originally Posted by ITHURTZ

take the trailing arm off and kick your tire, your answer will follow

Thanks but i dont wanna take the wheel off.

**Scottydoggs** · 09-13-2015

how can you not see wtf the trailing arms do, as well as the other two bars per side.

**Bio248** · 09-13-2015

Originally Posted by 00RedfireGT

Thanks but i dont wanna take the wheel off.

wat?

how're you doing this install without the wheels off? fo' reelz?

**Turbocharged400sbc** · 09-13-2015

under hard braking while driving forward the knuckle pulls on the trailing arm to transfer the forces to the body.

it is only ever under tension unless you like locking up the brakes while driving backwards at high speed while slamming on the brakes...then it'll be under compression and only then would the OEm "U" channel trailing arms tend to deflect/deform.

the change in bushings to a firmer material is the only real upgrade over oem.

meh they doo look good when you can see em with it's ass in the air rolling on front springs/cable mod