If you are in the market for suspension upgrades or replacements, you may have come across the term "FTS suspension parts." FTS stands for a brand or manufacturer known for producing aftermarket suspension components, often for trucks, SUVs, and off-road vehicles. These parts are designed to improve handling, durability, and ride quality, especially in demanding conditions. Whether you are restoring a classic, building a crawler, or just want better on-road manners, understanding FTS suspension parts can help you make an informed purchase.
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DAYTON PARTS 321-231 Suspension Installation Kit
What Are FTS Suspension Parts?
FTS suspension parts refer to a line of components manufactured by a company that specializes in suspension systems. They include control arms, shocks, struts, coil springs, leaf springs, sway bar links, bushings, and related hardware. FTS parts are typically engineered to be direct replacements or upgrades for factory components, offering improved strength, adjustability, or performance.
Common Types of FTS Suspension Parts
Control Arms
Control arms connect the vehicle's frame to the wheel hub and allow for up-and-down wheel movement. FTS control arms are often made from tubular steel or aluminum and may include replaceable ball joints and bushings. They are common in lifted trucks because they restore proper suspension geometry after a lift kit is installed.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts dampen the bounce of the springs. FTS offers various options, including monotube, twin-tube, and reservoir shocks for off-road use. Some are adjustable for compression and rebound, allowing you to tune the ride for different terrain.
Coil Springs and Leaf Springs
Springs support the vehicle's weight and absorb impacts. FTS coil springs may be progressive or linear rate, designed for specific lift heights or load capacities. Leaf springs are common in the rear of trucks and can be replaced with FTS units for added load support or articulation.
Sway Bars and Links
Sway bars reduce body roll during cornering. FTS sway bars are thicker than stock and often made from hollow or solid steel. Links connect the bar to the suspension and are frequently heavy-duty with polyurethane bushings.
Bushings and Hardware
Bushings cushion metal-on-metal contact. FTS offers polyurethane and rubber bushings for control arms and sway bars. Polyurethane is stiffer and lasts longer, while rubber offers a quieter ride.
Materials and Construction
FTS suspension parts come in different materials. Steel is durable and affordable, but heavier. Aluminum is lighter and resists corrosion, but may be more expensive. For off-road use, tubular steel with a powder coat finish is a good balance of strength and weight. Always check the material grade: 4130 chromoly steel is stronger than mild steel. For bushings, polyurethane (80-90A durometer) is common for performance, while rubber (60-70A) is better for daily driving comfort.
Compatibility and Fitment
Not all FTS parts fit every vehicle. Always verify compatibility with your make, model, year, and any existing modifications. Lift height matters—some control arms are designed for 0-2 inch lifts, others for 4-6 inches. Also consider the drivetrain: 2WD and 4WD versions may differ. If you have aftermarket wheels or tires, check clearance with sway bars and shocks.
How to Select the Right FTS Parts
- Identify your goal: Are you replacing worn parts or upgrading for off-road? A daily driver may need OE-replacement rubber bushings; a rock crawler benefits from polyurethane and bypass shocks.
- Check the lift height: Measure your current lift or intended lift. FTS parts often list the compatible lift range.
- Consider the terrain: For mud or desert, choose shocks with external reservoirs to prevent fade. For crawling, look for flexible arms with misalignment spacers.
- Set a budget: FTS parts are mid-range in price—not the cheapest, but not custom tiers. They offer good value for the performance.
- Read product descriptions: Look for specific material, finish, and warranty info. Avoid vague claims like "heavy-duty."
Installation and Maintenance
Most FTS suspension parts are bolt-on and can be installed by a competent DIYer with basic tools. However, control arms may require alignment afterwards. Shocks should be adjusted to the correct ride height if they are remote-reservoir. After installation, check torque on all fasteners after a few hundred miles. Polyurethane bushings should be greased periodically if they have grease fittings.
Pros and Cons of FTS Suspension Parts
Pros:
- Good balance of cost and performance
- Wide range of components for popular trucks and SUVs
- Generally durable materials and finishes
- Often include necessary hardware
Cons:
- Limited availability for some rare models
- Not as polished as high-end custom brands
- Some parts may require minor modifications (grinding or drilling)
Final Recommendation
If you are upgrading or replacing suspension parts on a light truck or SUV, FTS offers a solid middle-ground option. They are not the absolute top-tier, but they deliver reliable performance for daily driving and moderate off-road use. Start with components that address your biggest need—whether that is control arms for lift geometry or shocks for better damping. Always match parts with your specific vehicle and lift height. For serious off-road racing or extreme loads, consider higher-end brands; for budget builds, FTS is a smart choice. By focusing on your driving conditions and following the fitment guidelines, you can get good service life and improved ride quality from FTS suspension parts.