My left front lower control arm broke off today and im having trouble finding a replacement part. Any advice to where i can find a new one that fits ?

 

Create a thread in the Parts Wanted section of the Classified forum here >>> https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/parts-wanted-13/

 

To help expand your search.
The parts book lists the lower control arms as the same from 1965 thru 1970 All except F-85 and Toronado.
The factory part numbers are 402080 (RH) and 402081 (LH)
Thru 1975 - Oldsmobile Chassis and Body Parts Catalog - ClassicOldsmobile.com

 

You won't find a new one. Good used from another 1965-70 Olds full size is your only option. No, Caprice/Impala parts do not fit. Be aware that the upper ball joints for the 1965-70 full size cars are also very difficult to find new. They are RH/LH.

 

Here are some specialty salvage yards you can check.

https://www.dvap.com/

http://www.ctcautoranch.com/

You also might check here for ball joints and control arm bushings.

https://www.kanter.com/

https://www.fusickautomotiveproducts.com/

 

Are the control arms from delta/starfire/88/98 interchangable ? i found one used for each model but would like to get the least rusty if they're all the same

 

Both Charlie & Joe have already addressed your question.

 

 

Yes.

 

Once you get a control arm let us know if you find some ball joints. Hopefully Kanter at least carries cheapies.

 

Sorry to hear this news.

You’ll find a control arm at some point, but a good safety step is to have it checked for cracks under a UV light after magnaflux dip/treatment. Others here know more about safety checking than me. Point is since you’re dealing with used parts, do your best to confirm they are sound & safe. It’s also a good thing to note the nominal mileage of the donor car.

I recently learned that ball joints for these arms were made in standard and oversized diameters. I’ve had 2 lower A-arms break in 40 years with 2 similar cars and I wonder if the oversized ball joints contributed to the failure.

If it were me cleaning up this mess, I’d replace all lower bushings and ball joints presuming I could find the parts. Good time to evaluate all your steering gear while you’re in the front end if it’s loose/worn.

One more classic junkyard to check would be Turner’s Auto Salvage in Fresno, CA. You might also check in with GM Sport/Salvage in Stockton CA. GM S/S focuses on Camaros and A bodies, but they used to have a smattering of big car parts too.

Good luck.
Chris

 

Last post from OP indicated that he'd found control arms, which I took to be good news.

You do provide some useful tips for safety checking and fitting ball joints, though.