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Difference between Stainless/Powdercoated and Aluminum?

21K views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  realshelby 
#1 ·
Can anyone give a quick explanation between Richland Ricks 3 options of lowering links.

Raising and Lowering Links - AdventureTech, LLC.

I assume more expensive = better quality materials but an explanation of why I may or may not want to go with the cheapest option (powdercoated steel) would be great.

Thanks.
 
#2 ·
Hi Casper137,

basically the difference between the three types od materials is as follows:

- Aluminum is the lighter option in contrast to steel, but is also a weaker material (which is usually compensated for by just using more of it). Also, aluminum won't rust (at least as long as you don't let a lot of salt get on it)
- Stainless Steel is sturdier but heavier than aluminum (so usually to get the same strength as aluminum you use less of it), but it as well doesn't rust.
- Concerning strength and weight, the same goes for usual steel. But steel does rust. So as soon as you have a scratch on the link that's where it's gonna start to rust. Especially at the joints where there is movement I imagine the coating will come off pretty quickly.

I personally would go either with the aluminum one or the stainless steel one.
 
#3 ·
Given the options and price difference I would use get the stainless ones. It's only $17 difference for a better material. I wouldn't run aluminum, but that is only my personal preference, I prefer steel, especially in a structural situation like the suspension links. Although I'm sure the aluminum ones that Rick is selling here are great because all of his products are!

If you want to save $17 then go with the powder coated steel, the powder coating should be strong enough to hold up to what ever can be dished out to it. The stock links are "electrically coated" steel and hold up just fine.

I know that the aluminum would be lighter, and you might save a pound or two :confused: if that is worth it to you.

Good luck making a decision! Rick does great business, and I'm very happy with the components I have from him. :thumbup:
 
#4 ·
The factory links are plated steel ( probably some kind of cadmium plating ). Steel is hard to beat for the tasks the links are required to do. Stiffer and not as prone to elongation as aluminum ( unless the aluminum is much thicker/wider which defeats its advantage in weight ). Powdercoated steel would tend to lose the coating where it is in contact with the other components. BUT, as for rust, the same contact will keep the rust from building up. I would never expect any problems from the powdercoated versions. Stainless steel might be worth it for those that actually wash and polish their 'Stroms!
 
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