Why put aftermarket upper A arms?

[76flyer]

Seen these on the suspension upgrade sites and figure they're stronger than stock but are there other reasons to upgrade to these and what level of offroading would the stockers not work and the aftermarket be needed?
Thanks

[tbrown78]

Originally Posted by 76flyer

Seen these on the suspension upgrade sites and figure they're stronger than stock but are there other reasons to upgrade to these and what level of offroading would the stockers not work and the aftermarket be needed?
Thanks

The only real reason you'd need them is if you were running a lift higher then 2.5". It adds caster, which allows you to align the truck properly. When you go higher then 2.5" you can't get the caster required to align the truck right. The stock arms are plenty strong enough and the only real reason you'd “need” them is for the added caster if you plan on going higher then 2.5". Strength is not the real issue, I've never seen anyone brake an A arm. The worst I've seen is a blown ball joint, which is an easy fix. A uniball is stronger though but is also a harder fix. Ton's of trucks run coilovers and never replace the A-arms, trucks like the Expeditions West Tacoma, and the Baja Taco have taken their trucks every where and wheeled everything and they run coilovers with the stock A-arms. A uniball also requires maintenance since it’s an open unit unlike a ball joint so keep that in mind. Total Chaos make great units though so if you can put up with a little added noise, a little more maintenance and have the money they are a quality unit which are highly recommended. If you decide to get them go with Total Chaos over Camburg, they’re both good but Total Chaos is a little better and they don’t cut any corners.