While returning home from Middle Saint Vrain / Coney Flats a week ago today, we developed a "squeak" in the rear. Initially I thought that maybe it had to do with our coilovers and this water crossing. Maybe some debris stuck in our multi-piece sliders?
The following day I inspected the suspension, and really didn't notice anything except the
broken zerks on the rear frame-side UCA Johnny Joints while applying grease. I went out to replace the broken zerks after work yesterday and found that the rear long arm brackets had broken at the UCA mounts on both the passenger and the driver sides.
My installer did not weld at the triangular cutouts located on the brackets (see above pics). EVO MFG has been kind enough to ship out replacement brackets post-haste. My installer took delivery of the Jeep this morning and will rectify the situation as soon as the brackets are in hand.
I'll tell you what, after the install was completed I thoroughly inspected the Jeep while it was on the rack and while it was on the ground. I never thought twice about the cutouts. They look similar to the cutouts in the in the front coilover towers, and I just didn't think anything about it.
Though inconvenient, I've tempered my frustration as this really is a first world problem. I am thankful that the brackets did not let go on the trail or while driving on the street. I have learned to be more thorough while inspecting my rig. I have learned the difference between a
creak and a
squeak.
Lastly, I'd like to thank Eddie for taking the time to inspect my pictures and for readily addressing my questions/concerns yesterday.