“2016 RAM 1500 Sport 4x4
SUSPENSION: Bilstein 5100 F/R set to max height of 2.8in
WHEELS: OEM 20x9
TIRES: Falken WIdpeak 295/60/20
INSTALLED: January 2021
REASON FOR REPLACEMENT: Could not locate or resolve a popping noise in the front end during slow parking lot turns that was progressively getting worse. Since the UCAs were an issue on Gen3 models, it made sense that this was likely the culprit with a raised geometry. I didn't choose other replacement options because most were stamped (like OEM) and I like to support local, hard-working business owners.
INSTALL: The included instructions made this install super-easy, it's an easily swapping part. I found after removal of the OEM UCA that the popping noise (during sharp, slow tuarns) was caused by the joints incrementally forcing themselves out of the arm.
EXPERIENCE: No more popping! The driving feel is definitely more controlled and I'm overall very happy with the purchase. Several notes of caution, or shall I say preparation, before installing. (1) You WILL have to get an alignment rather soon after installation from someone who has a lot of experience with Rams, as the wheels toe and camber are dramatically impacted due to the shorter arms. Envision the front wheels on a drift car. I used someone with 26-years experience aligning vehicles and he said I was maxed out. (2) If you have over-sized tires on OEM wheels, plan on purchasing wheel spacers, which then require adjustments to the wheel liners. A minor offset would allow the tires to clear the UCAs, as I only needed 1/2in, but went with 1.5in spacers to avoid cutting the studs.
The road was bumpy, but in the end I am happy with the results, especially the improved safety when hauling my family. The thoroughness in communication from ordering, shipment, delivery, to electronic information provided is bar none! Marlin does an outstanding job of trying to head off any assumptions a customer may make with the product or installation.”
“I like them. I would now have to purchase some new coil overs to experience the full range of flex and I been told. Stand by once I get those I’ll be able to provide an accurate assessment. Thank you for your JBA services”
“If you have the Bilstein 5100 shocks set to 2.8" of lift then these, in my humble opinion, are an absolute necessity. I've had the 5100's in my '11 Ram 1500 Outdoorsman for almost 3 years now. The first 2 years the shocks were set at 2.1" lift. Drove fine, no problems, but did not sit level. Still slightly raked to the front. After reading about all the problems people were having with their trucks after setting the shocks at 2.8", I figured I'd try a different route. Installed lowering springs in the rear with some shims and spacers. Even thought about cutting a coil out of the stock spring but I tow a lot and didn't want my capacity to diminish. About a year ago I ultimately bumped the shocks all the way up to 2.8", anticipating the truck to sit level. It did NOT! Still .5" lower in the front. So I threw in the towel and just drove it. Not long after, all the bad stuff you read about online started happening to my truck. Everything from strange random vibrations to terrible bump steer and then finally the death wobble while towing a trailer on the highway at 60 mph. It got so violent that it almost jack-knifed, and didn't stop until it got down to 15 mph. After checking my shorts, I tossed a tip to Gabriel for valeting my truck. And told him to thank God for me, seeing as had Gabriel not intervened, I'd be telling God in person. After that incident it was clear that my ball joints had failed. I had my eye on the JBA UCA's for about a year but couldn't justify the price tag in my mindset. Until that day that Gabriel had to save my a**. Immediately ordered a set. Arrived in less than a week. Slapped the JBA's and new tires on my truck. Got an alignment. Not only does it drive better than new now, the JBA's gave my truck the elusive extra .5" lift I was trying to achieve. Truck sits perfectly level now! Only complaint I have is the instructions contain conflicting information about what grease to use and torque specs. A quick email cleared that issue up and we were rolling in no time. Highly recommend. Mind blowin by how much angle these ball joints can travel! I swear they swing beyond the stated 90 degrees. Probably see these on "Ripley's Believe It or Not" one day. Thanks JBA! Keep up the good work.”
“Overall excellent performance,ease of installation and superior construction make these control arms a must have.also top rate customer service would recommend this company to everyone”
