Trailing Arms
Trailing arms, traction rods and tension rods locate the hub fore and aft, controlling how it moves under acceleration and braking. Once a car is lowered, the factory arm can leave toe and anti-squat outside spec, which shows up as a loose or unpredictable rear end. This range sits within our Suspension category and covers adjustable and fixed arms from SPL Parts, Hardrace, Suspension Secrets and RS-R.
Shop by Product Type
The collection includes:
- Rear traction arms, links and rods: Includes dogbone-style and high-clearance designs, plus upper and lower arms. Covers the Nissan Silvia/180SX/200SX (S13/S14), Skyline (R32/R33/R34), 350Z (Z33), 370Z (Z34), Z (RZ34) and GT-R (R35), Subaru WRX/STI (VA), Toyota 86/GR86 and Subaru BRZ, Mazda MX-5 (NC/ND), Toyota GR Supra (A90)/BMW Z4 (G29), BMW M2 (F87/G87), M3 (G80)/M4 (G82), 3 Series/4 Series (F3X), Porsche Boxster/Cayman (986/987), Lexus IS300 (XE10) and Tesla Model 3.
- Rear lower trailing arms: For the BMW 1 Series (E8X) and 3 Series (E9X).
- Front tension rods, standard and offset: For the Nissan Silvia/180SX/200SX (S13/S14), Skyline (R32/R33/R34) and Skyline GT-R (R32/R33), BMW 3 Series/4 Series (F3X) and Ford Mustang (S550).
- Front trailing and caster/trailing arms: For the Porsche 911 (996/997/991) and Boxster/Cayman (986/987/981).
- Accessories: Includes SPL Parts tension rod brake air deflectors for the Nissan Silvia/180SX/200SX (S13/S14).
Some kits are adjustable and others are fixed length. Some use spherical bearings at one or both ends to reduce deflection under load. Check each listing to see what is in the box.
Related ranges: Caster Rods, Toe Arms, Camber Arms, Control Arms, Bushings, Alignment Kits and Coilovers. You can browse every manufacturer on our brands page.
Choosing the Right Part
Arm design changes between chassis generations, so match the chassis code on the listing (for example S14, R34, ZN6, ZD8, NC, ND, VA, F87, G87, E9X or 997) to your car before ordering.
Check these points:
- Whether the part is front or rear, and upper or lower.
- Whether you need adjustable or fixed length. Adjustable arms let an alignment technician set toe or caster accurately.
- Whether your setup calls for an offset or high-clearance design.
- Whether you prefer spherical bearings, which give less deflection but transmit more road noise than rubber, or a bushed design for a daily-driven car.
Where the manufacturer lists separate part numbers, confirm the listing covers your Australian-delivered right-hand-drive variant.
Installation & What You'll Need
Installation by a professional is recommended. Changing arm length directly alters wheel alignment, so a wheel alignment after fitting is essential.
Plan for:
- A hoist and standard hand tools.
- Penetrating fluid for seized factory bolts.
- An alignment booking.
Torque figures and bush orientation vary by model, so follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Trailing arms are often replaced at the same time as toe arms and camber arms, so the rear geometry is corrected in one alignment. This is especially common on cars running coilovers or lowering springs.
FAQ
Will these trailing arms fit my exact model and year?
Fitment changes with chassis generation. Check the chassis code on the individual listing against your car before ordering.
Do I need a wheel alignment after fitting?
Yes. Adjustable arms change toe or caster, so book an alignment as part of the job.
What is the difference between a trailing arm, traction rod and tension rod?
Manufacturers use different names for arms that locate the hub fore and aft. Front tension rods and caster arms can also be used to set caster, so check the listing for what each part adjusts.
Are spherical bearings too harsh for a street car?
They transmit more road noise than rubber bushings. Many owners accept that on a lowered or track-driven car, while a daily-only build may suit a bushed arm better.
Need help choosing? Contact our team at sales@chicaneaustralia.com.au.
