A-Arms & Swingarms
About A-Arms & Swingarms
A-arms hold each wheel to the frame and let it move up and down, and on some machines a swingarm does the same job at the rear. The pivots are what wear, so many listings here are repair kits: A-arm bearing kits, bushing kits and A-arm repair kits, along with rear independent suspension kits. Owners shop here for a clunk at the pivot, play in the wheel, or a rear suspension that has gone loose.
Choose by location and by what is worn. Listings name the position, such as front upper, front lower or upper and lower, and they name the machine, for example a Polaris General, Honda Foreman, Yamaha YXZ1000R or Can-Am Outlander. An A-arm bearing kit replaces the bearings at the arm's pivot, while a bushing kit replaces the bushings. Rear independent suspension kits are listed for particular machines and years. A kit renews the pivot parts, not a bent or cracked arm, so a damaged arm needs to be replaced. Bearings and bushings are often pressed in, so allow for a press or the right drivers.
Brands in this category include EPI, All Balls, Moose Offroad and Pivot Works. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to see kits made for it. Related groups are Suspension Bearings, Bushings & Seals, Control Arms, Ball Joints & Assemblies and the parent, Steering & Suspension.
FAQs on A-arm and independent suspension kits
How can I tell if my A-arm bushings or bearings are worn?
Look for a clunk over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear, or play at the arm when you move the wheel by hand with the machine supported. Check each pivot for rough movement or a loose fit. Your service manual describes how to test the arms on your model.
What is the difference between a bearing kit and a bushing kit?
A bearing kit has bearings so the arm pivots on rolling parts. A bushing kit replaces the sleeve-style bushings the arm pivots on. Which one your machine uses depends on the model, so match the listing to your machine and the arm position rather than swapping type.
Can a repair kit fix a bent or cracked A-arm?
No. A kit replaces the bearings, bushings or seals at the pivots. If the arm itself is bent, cracked or damaged around the pivot, it needs to be replaced. Do not ride on an arm that is damaged.
Do I need to replace both sides at once?
It is a good idea to do both sides of the same axle together, since each side has done the same work. Use the position in the listing, such as front upper or lower, and fit the kit to each arm you open. Follow your manual for grease and reassembly.
What tools do I need to install an A-arm bearing kit?
Most installs need basic hand tools, a way to support the machine, grease, and often a press or bearing drivers to remove and seat the parts without damaging them. Check your service manual for the removal steps and the correct fasteners for your model.
