Federal-Mogul Motorparts recently reported the results of a series of independent tests of replacement ball joints that are commonly marketed as offering “original equipment quality or better.” According to the company, the tests showed that just one aftermarket brand – MOOG – achieved that standard in metallurgical testing. Announced at AAPEX 2016 in Las Vegas, the test results also showed that MOOG ball joints for three leading automotive applications – 2007 Chevrolet Silverado, 2013 Ford F-150 and 2007 Toyota Camry – offer more than five times greater durability than the corresponding parts from three competing brands, the company says. Metallurgical analysis of the ball studs utilized in a variety of competing products along with MOOG ball joints for the three applications showed that only the MOOG parts met or exceeded the characteristics of the original equipment ball studs as evaluated in accordance with ASTM 415-15, ASTM E340-15 and ASTM E18-16 standard test methods, according to Federal-Mogul Motorparts. MOOG and the competing products’ ball joint stud metallurgy was compared to the OE (original equipment) stud metallurgy. Stud metallurgy was analyzed by evaluating chemical composition, heat treatment, shot peening and the impact of those factors on stud fatigue life. Testing was performed by St. Louis Testing Laboratories Inc., St. Louis, and the results analyzed by Anderson & Associates Inc., Houston. Multi-axial durability testing of the competing products and MOOG ball joints showed that the MOOG parts provided more than five times the durability of the competing ball joints, Federal-Mogul Motorparts has reported. Durability testing was conducted by B83 Testing & Engineering, Inc. in Milwaukee. “MOOG always goes the extra mile by investing in continuous innovation, conducting rigorous testing, ensuring product durability and delivering the most comprehensive coverage. These tests reinforce a fact that many automotive service professionals already understand – there are significant quality and performance differences between MOOG and other brands of steering and suspension components,” said Michael Proud, vice president, marketing, Americas, Federal-Mogul Motorparts. “This is an important message that we are communicating every day to repair shop owners, service writers, professional technicians and to millions of consumers across North America.” MOOG also has launched a brand new app for customers. Download the “MOOG Parts” app at Moogparts.com/SomethingBig to receive the latest news and information about all MOOG products.