Hey guys. Just wanted some opinions on Chrome Moly vs. Mild Steel for suspension components.

Obviously, cost is one, strength..etc

Just wanted to spark some discussion and see what everyone has to say.

Thanks

 

hoo boy, I was going to give you a link to the material properties of both, but I think you're wishing for more of an arguement

You're talking like AISI 1020 vs AISI 4340 say?

4340 is more corrosion resistant, which is nice.
It's got much more strength (yield strength), and toughness modulus.

1020 is easier to machine and weld. 4340 I think gives a nasty heat effected zone where you lose your strength (since all the strength comes from the heat treating, quench and temper).

You can go thinner, and therefor lighter, and get the same strength with 4340. But if weight wasn't an issue, you can simply get the 1020 thicker, and still same some $.

Unless it's a real fast car, with a fair bit of $ in it, MS should suffice.

 

do a search. - There's a really good post about it in regards to tubular a-arms. Several knowledgable people had a good discussion on pros and cons of ms vs moly.

- you'll probably find more info from a search than anyone will re-post.