I’ve been thrilled with my KSP Upper Control Arms, and you’ll want them for your Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner too.
This review shares my hands-on experience, diving into their performance, pros, cons, and maintenance tips.
With detailed comparisons to other brands, I’ll show you why KSP’s arms are a game-changer for lifted rigs.
Whether you’re tackling off-road trails or smoothing out your ride, these arms deliver.
Grab KSP Upper Control Arms today and transform your suspension for better handling and durability!
My Experience with KSP Upper Control Arms
I’ve been wrenching on my 2001 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 for years, and after installing a 3-inch lift kit, I knew I needed upper control arms to fix the geometry and stop the tire rub.
I chose KSP’s Front Upper Control Arms for 2-4” lifts, designed for my 1996-2003 Tacoma, and I’ve put them through their paces over six months, covering 8,000 miles of city streets, desert trails, and rocky off-road paths.
Right out of the box, the KSP arms impressed me with their beefy build.
The 1.25-inch DOM tubing felt solid, and the black powder-coated finish gave a sleek, durable look.
Installation took about two hours in my garage, with clear instructions and included hardware making it straightforward, though I recommend a professional if you’re not handy with a wrench.
The pre-installed polyurethane (PU) bushings and greaseable ball joints were a nice touch, promising longevity.
On my first test drive, I noticed a tighter, more responsive steering feel.
The arms corrected the alignment issues from my lift, and my 33-inch tires no longer rubbed against the fenders during sharp turns.
Off-roading in the Arizona desert, the KSP arms handled rocks and ruts smoothly, improving suspension travel and keeping my Tacoma stable.
After a 100-mile trail run, the ride felt smoother than stock, with less body roll on corners.
The only hiccup? One zerk fitting was awkwardly angled, making greasing a bit tricky, but I managed with a flexible hose.
After 8,000 miles, they’re still rock-solid, and I’m confident they’ll last.
About KSP Upper Control Arms
KSP Performance is a trusted name in aftermarket suspension parts, focusing on affordable, high-quality upgrades.
Their Front Upper Control Arms for 2-4” lifts, priced around $150-$200, fit 1996-2003 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 4WD, 1996-2004 Prerunner 4×2, and 1995-2002 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 3rd Gen (N180).
Made from CNC-machined, powder-coated DOM tubing, these arms feature heat-treated alloy steel ball pins, PU bushings, and greaseable joints for durability.
Designed to correct alignment after lifts, they enhance handling and suspension travel for off-road enthusiasts and daily drivers alike.
Pros and Cons of KSP Upper Control Arms
Pros:
- Durable construction: 1.25-inch DOM tubing ensures strength and longevity.
- Improved handling: Corrects geometry for better steering and stability.
- Easy installation: Bolts on with included hardware, no major modifications needed.
- Affordable price: $150-$200, cheaper than premium brands like Total Chaos.
- Rust-resistant: Powder-coated finish protects against corrosion.
- Enhanced off-road performance: Increases suspension travel for rough terrains.
- PU bushings: Outlast rubber in extreme temperatures, improving ride quality.
- Greaseable joints: Allows maintenance to extend service life.
- Sleek design: Black finish looks sharp on lifted trucks.
- Wide fitment: Compatible with multiple Toyota models (1995-2004).
Cons:
- Zerk fitting placement: Some fittings face inward, complicating greasing.
- No replacement ball joints: KSP doesn’t offer standalone ball joint replacements.
- Professional install recommended: May be complex for DIY beginners.
- Limited adjustability: Fixed geometry, less tunable than high-end arms.
- Slightly stiff ride: PU bushings can feel firmer than stock on smooth roads.
- Weight: Heavier than aluminum arms, adding minor front-end weight.
- Not for extreme lifts: Designed for 2-4” lifts, not higher setups.
- Mixed reviews: Some users report alignment issues with certain setups.
- Basic instructions: Directions could be clearer for first-time installers.
- Warranty limitations: 12-month replacement, 30-day refund, with conditions.
Maintenance Tips for KSP Upper Control Arms
- Grease Regularly: I grease the ball joints every 5,000 miles using a high-quality lithium grease to flush out dirt and reduce wear. I tighten the zerk fittings gently to avoid damaging the copper.
- Inspect Bushings: I check the PU bushings monthly for cracks or wear, especially after off-roading, to ensure they’re holding up in harsh conditions.
- Clean the Arms: I rinse off mud and debris after trails with a hose, avoiding high-pressure washers to protect the powder coating.
- Check Alignment: I get an alignment every 6 months or after heavy off-road use to maintain tire wear and handling precision.
- Tighten Bolts: I torque all bolts to spec (per KSP’s manual) after the first 1,000 miles to ensure nothing loosens during break-in.
- Store Properly: When swapping parts, I store the arms in a dry garage to prevent rust, wrapping zerks to keep them clean.
- Rotate Tires: I rotate my tires every 5,000 miles to even out wear, as the arms’ geometry affects alignment slightly.
- Avoid Overloading: I keep my Tacoma’s payload within limits to prevent stressing the arms during heavy off-road trips.
- Monitor Ball Joints: I inspect the dust boots for tears monthly, ensuring contaminants don’t enter the greaseable joints.
- Professional Checkups: I have a mechanic inspect the arms yearly to catch any issues early, especially after intense trails.
My Routine with KSP Upper Control Arms
I’ve integrated KSP Upper Control Arms into my Tacoma’s maintenance and driving routine.
Before each off-road trip, I grease the joints and check bolts for tightness, taking about 15 minutes.
I installed them with Bilstein 5100 shocks for a 3-inch lift, and the combo transformed my truck’s ride.
On daily drives, I notice sharper steering and less body roll, especially on highway curves.
For desert trails, I push the arms hard, and they handle jumps and ruts without complaint.
I clean them after every off-road session and get alignments twice yearly to keep everything dialed in.
The arms have made my Tacoma feel like a new truck, and I’m stoked with the upgrade.
Performance Analysis
KSP’s Upper Control Arms shine in correcting suspension geometry after a 2-4” lift.
The 1.25-inch DOM tubing and heat-treated ball pins provide durability, handling my Tacoma’s 33-inch tires and 3-inch lift without issues.
On pavement, the PU bushings reduce body roll, making corners feel precise.
Off-road, the arms increase articulation, letting my suspension flex over rocks without binding.
After 8,000 miles, I’ve seen no rust or wear, and the powder coating holds up.
The downside? The fixed geometry limits fine-tuning caster and camber compared to premium brands, and zerk placement can frustrate greasing.
Still, for the price, the performance is stellar for most off-roaders.
Comparison with Other Brands
- KSP Vs. Total Chaos
Total Chaos’s uniball arms ($800+) are crafted for extreme off-roading, offering adjustable heim joints for precise camber and caster tuning.
I found KSP’s arms ($150-$200) more budget-friendly and easier to install, with no need for constant adjustments.
Total Chaos excels for hardcore desert runners needing maximum articulation, but KSP’s PU bushings and greaseable joints suit daily drivers and moderate trails better, balancing cost and performance.
- KSP Vs. SPC
SPC’s adjustable arms ($600-$700) are a favorite for their camber and caster adjustability, ideal for precise alignments.
I noticed KSP’s fixed geometry simplifies installation but sacrifices some tuning flexibility.
SPC’s arms use sealed ball joints, requiring less maintenance than KSP’s greaseable ones, but KSP’s lower price and durable tubing make them a practical choice for budget-conscious Tacoma owners.
KSP Vs. Freedom Off-Road
Freedom Off-Road’s arms ($200-$300) are a direct competitor, offering similar 2-4” lift compatibility.
I found KSP’s build quality comparable, but Freedom’s arms sometimes misalign camber, as some users report.
KSP’s PU bushings outperform Freedom’s rubber ones in extreme temperatures, and the powder coating feels more durable.
Freedom’s slightly higher price doesn’t justify the performance for my needs.
- KSP Vs. Dynofit
Dynofit’s arms ($180-$250) also target 2-4” lifts, with zinc-nickel ball joints for longevity.
I appreciated KSP’s smoother powder-coated finish and easier-to-grease joints.
Dynofit’s arms improve steering sensitivity, but their instructions are vague, making KSP’s clearer manual a plus.
Both are solid, but KSP edges out for affordability and off-road reliability.
Cost and Value Assessment
At $150-$200, KSP Upper Control Arms are a steal compared to Total Chaos ($800+) or SPC ($600-$700).
They deliver durable construction, improved handling, and easy installation for a fraction of the cost.
After 8,000 miles, my arms show no wear, promising 50,000+ miles with proper care.
The 30-day refund and 12-month replacement warranty add peace of mind, though I haven’t needed it.
Compared to Freedom Off-Road or Dynofit, KSP offers better value for Tacoma and 4Runner owners seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Ideal Users for KSP Upper Control Arms
These arms are perfect for Toyota Tacoma (1996-2003), Prerunner (1996-2004), or 4Runner (1995-2002) owners with 2-4” lifts.
If you’re a weekend off-roader or daily driver needing better alignment and handling, KSP delivers.
They suit budget-conscious enthusiasts who want durability without premium price tags.
Hardcore desert racers might prefer adjustable arms like Total Chaos, but for most 4×4 enthusiasts, KSP’s balance of cost, performance, and ease of use is spot-on.
Addressing Common Feedback
Some users gripe about zerk fitting placement, and I get it—one of mine spun awkwardly, making greasing tough.
I used a flexible grease gun hose to solve it.
Others mention KSP’s lack of replacement ball joints, which is a bummer, but the arms’ durability means you likely won’t need them soon.
Alignment issues pop up in reviews, but my shop nailed factory specs with a 3-inch lift.
Proper installation and regular maintenance address most concerns, making these arms a reliable upgrade.
Also Read: My Thoughts On CARPRO DarkSide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, KSP arms are durable, affordable, and improve handling for 2-4” lifts, though zerk placement can be tricky.
Total Chaos leads for adjustability, but KSP offers the best value for budget-friendly, reliable performance.
With proper maintenance, KSP arms can last 50,000+ miles, typically 3-5 years for regular off-roaders.
Absolutely, they correct alignment, reduce tire wear, and enhance handling, especially for lifted Tacomas or 4Runners.
Final Thoughts
After months of testing, I’m sold on KSP Upper Control Arms, and you should be too.
They’ve transformed my Tacoma’s ride, delivering smooth handling, durability, and value for just $150-$200.
Whether you’re hitting trails or cruising highways, these arms keep your lifted rig aligned and stable.
Compared to pricier brands, KSP holds its own with solid construction and easy maintenance.
Don’t let tire rub or sloppy steering hold you back—grab KSP Upper Control Arms and upgrade your Toyota’s suspension today!
