Introduction
The Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arms are designed to offer enhanced performance, durability, and ease of installation for vehicles utilizing the Mustang II independent front suspension (IFS) system. These components are engineered to replace stock upper and lower control arms, providing a lighter, stronger, and more corrosion-resistant alternative. The control arms are fully assembled and ready to install, making them an ideal solution for hot rods, muscle cars, and other performance vehicles. This article provides a detailed overview of the specifications, features, and installation considerations for the Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arm assemblies, based exclusively on the information provided in the source documents.
Product Overview
The Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arm kits are available in both complete sets (including upper and lower arms) and individual upper arm assemblies. These kits are designed to be direct replacements for stock control arms and are suitable for most stock or aftermarket crossmembers with or without gussets installed. The components are constructed using high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Key Features
12-Point TIG Welded Construction: The control arms are built using 12-point TIG welding for maximum strength and durability. This method ensures a solid and reliable joint between the tubular components and mounting points.
Aircraft-Quality Tubular Design: The tubular structure is made from 0.120 wall aircraft-quality steel, which is lighter in weight yet significantly stronger than original equipment (OE) stock designs. This design also allows for better clearance between the control arms and body sheet metal.
Corrosion-Resistant Finish: The control arms feature a corrosion- and rust-resistant painted surface, with the exception of the powder-coated cross shaft. This treatment helps protect the components from environmental damage and extends their service life.
Polyurethane Bushings and Steel Sleeves: The control arms include polyurethane no-squeak bushings with steel sleeves, which help reduce noise and vibration while maintaining proper suspension geometry.
Adjustable and Greaseable Components: The control arms are equipped with screw-in ball joints that have urethane dust boots and grease fittings for easy maintenance. These joints also feature knurled surface mount areas on the cross shaft, which help prevent slippage and maintain alignment settings.
Ready-to-Install Design: The control arms are fully assembled and come with all necessary hardware, including cross shafts, bushings, ball joints, nuts, washers, and spacers. This makes them easy to install without the need for additional modifications or adjustments.
Installation Considerations
While the Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arms are designed for straightforward installation, users should be aware of certain technical details and precautions to ensure proper fitment and functionality. The installation process involves replacing the stock control arms with the new Helix units, which are ready to drop in immediately upon unboxing.
Hardware and Fitment
Cross Shaft Design: The cross shaft of the control arms includes knurled surface areas on both sides of the mounting points. These knurls provide "bite" into the mounting surface, preventing slippage and maintaining alignment settings. However, the knurled areas are unfinished and repainting or refinishing is not recommended, as it may reduce the effectiveness of the knurls and lead to slippage or loss of alignment adjustment.
Stock Width Design: Both the upper and lower control arms are manufactured to a stock width design (non-narrowed). This ensures compatibility with most stock or aftermarket crossmembers without the need for modifications.
Compatibility with Crossmembers: The control arms are designed to fit most stock or aftermarket crossmembers. When installing these components, users should verify that the crossmember is compatible with the new control arms and that any necessary gussets or reinforcements are properly installed.
Included Hardware: Each control arm assembly includes all necessary hardware for installation, such as cross shafts, bushings, ball joints, nuts, washers, and spacers. This eliminates the need for users to source additional parts or make modifications to the existing hardware.
Installation Warnings and Precautions
User Responsibility: According to the manufacturer's documentation, it is the user's responsibility to ensure that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to competently perform the installation of the product in a workmanlike manner. The user must also be familiar with the necessary safety precautions before beginning the installation process.
No Warranty for Third-Party Support: Helix Suspension Brakes and Steering disclaims any responsibility for technical support provided by third-party service providers. Users who require assistance with installation or troubleshooting should ensure that the service provider is qualified and familiar with the product.
Liability Limitations: The manufacturer also specifies that it is not liable for any loss, damage, or injury to the user, others, the vehicle, or any personal property that may arise from the use of the product or any act or omission, including negligence, by the manufacturer or any third-party service provider.
Compatibility and Safety: It is the user's responsibility to ensure the compatibility and safety of the product when used in conjunction with their specific vehicle. This includes verifying that the control arms are suitable for the intended application and that all installation instructions are followed correctly.
Technical Specifications
The technical specifications of the Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arms are outlined in the source documentation and provide insight into the materials, construction, and performance characteristics of the product.
Upper Control Arm Assembly
- Material: Aircraft-quality tubular steel with 0.120 wall thickness.
- Construction: 12-point TIG welded for maximum strength and durability.
- Surface Treatment: Corrosion- and rust-resistant painted surface (except powder-coated cross shaft).
- Included Components:
- Cross shaft with knurled surface mount area
- Screw-in ball joint with urethane dust boot and grease fitting
- Castle nut with cotter pin and castle nut spacer
- 2 each Nyloc nuts and plain washers
- Width: Stock width (non-narrowed)
- Design: Ready-to-install
Lower Control Arm Assembly
- Material: 1 inch O.D. aircraft-quality tubular steel with 0.120 wall thickness.
- Construction: Precision-fabricated TIG welded construction for maximum strength and durability.
- Surface Treatment: Corrosion- and rust-resistant painted surface.
- Included Components:
- 2 each 5/8-11 x 12” hex bolts (cross shaft)
- Nylon locking nuts and large 5/8” washers
- Polyurethane no-squeak bushings with steel sleeves
- Screw-in ball joint with urethane dust boot and grease fitting
- 7/16-14 x 7” hex bolt (Allen head)
- Castle nut with cotter pin and castle nut/ball joint spacers
- Width: Stock width (non-narrowed)
- Design: Ready-to-install
Dispute Resolution and Service Policies
Helix Suspension Brakes and Steering provides a clear policy for dispute resolution and service support, which users should be aware of before purchasing or using the product.
Dispute Resolution
Negotiation and Mediation: Any dispute arising from the use of the product should first be addressed through face-to-face negotiation with persons fully authorized to resolve the dispute. If this is not successful, the parties may opt for mediation using a mutually agreeable mediator.
Arbitration: If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation within a reasonable time, it will be settled by binding arbitration in accordance with the CPR Rules for Non-Administered Arbitration. The arbitration will be conducted before three independent and impartial arbitrators, with the location set in Portland, Oregon.
Applicable Law: The arbitration will be governed by the United States Federal Arbitration Act, excluding any inconsistent state laws.
Service and Support
Service Offerings: Helix Suspension Brakes and Steering reserves the right to revise its service and support programs at any time without prior notice. Users should refer to the terms and conditions published online at the time of purchase for the most up-to-date information.
Payment Requirements: The manufacturer is not obligated to provide service or support until full payment for the product or service has been received.
Third-Party Service Providers: Helix does not provide, endorse, or assume responsibility for any product or service advertised or offered by a third party through its website or any hyperlinked website. Users are advised to use their best judgment and exercise caution when engaging with third-party providers.
Conclusion
The Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arms are a high-performance solution for vehicles equipped with the Mustang II IFS system. These components are engineered for durability, strength, and ease of installation, making them a reliable choice for hot rods, muscle cars, and other performance-oriented applications. The control arms are constructed using aircraft-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques, ensuring long-term reliability and optimal performance. While the product is designed for straightforward installation, users should be aware of the technical details and precautions outlined in the manufacturer's documentation to ensure proper fitment and functionality. Additionally, users are responsible for verifying compatibility with their specific vehicle and following all safety guidelines during the installation process. By adhering to these guidelines and understanding the product's features and limitations, users can maximize the performance and longevity of their Helix Mustang II Tubular Control Arms.