For a semi truck, confirm whether you need a suspension control arm or a steering pitman arm before ordering: they are different components. The two Automann listings below are specifically for Volvo VN and Kenworth trucks, but they are pitman arms, not suspension control arms. The other options are upper control arm kits for specific Chevrolet and GMC pickups, not semi trucks.
| Product | Best For | Part Type |
|---|---|---|
| Automann Volvo VN Pitman Arm | Compatible Volvo VN trucks | Steering pitman arm |
| Automann Kenworth Pitman Arm | Compatible Kenworth trucks | Steering pitman arm |
| Cognito 2011–2019 2500/3500 Kit | Specified Silverado/Sierra heavy-duty pickups | Upper control arm |
| Cognito 2001–2010 2500/3500 Kit | Earlier Silverado/Sierra heavy-duty pickups | Upper control arm |
| Cognito 2014–2018 1500 Kit | Specified Silverado/Sierra 1500 models | Upper control arm |
Automann Volvo VN Pitman Arm
Best for: Buyers replacing a steering pitman arm on a compatible Volvo VN Series truck. This is the most directly relevant listing for a semi-truck steering linkage repair among the supplied products. It is not a suspension control arm.
Automann lists OEM cross-references 20447238, 44616502, and 448242. The arm measures 10.25 inches long, with upper and lower bore diameters of 1.973 and 0.920 inches. Its heavy-duty construction weighs 9.5 pounds.
Check before ordering: Match the truck’s application and existing part number. The listed dimensions and cross-references should be verified against the vehicle because the product information does not establish fitment for every VN configuration.
Automann Kenworth Pitman Arm
Best for: Kenworth owners or repair shops seeking the listed replacement for OEM part 84242502. Like the Volvo option, this is a steering pitman arm rather than a suspension control arm.
The listed arm is 11.25 inches long and has mounting-point diameters of 2.000 and 1.031 inches. Automann describes it as a heavy-duty component weighing 10.45 pounds, intended for steering control in commercial trucking applications.
Check before ordering: Confirm OEM number 84242502 and the mounting measurements for the specific truck. The listing identifies Kenworth fitment but does not provide a model-year range in the supplied details.
Cognito 2011–2019 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500 Kit
Best for: Owners of compatible 2011–2019 Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500/3500 pickups who need an upper control arm kit. This is a heavy-duty pickup application, not a semi-truck part.
The Cognito Motorsports kit is listed for 2WD and 4WD vehicles and features a corrected ball-joint angle and added caster. Those design details are relevant when selecting a replacement or geometry-focused upper arm, but the supplied product information does not specify a lift range.
Check before ordering: Verify year, model, and drivetrain. Do not assume it fits a commercial semi truck or a different Silverado/Sierra generation.
Cognito 2001–2010 Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500 Kit
Best for: Drivers maintaining compatible 2001–2010 Silverado or Sierra 2500/3500 trucks. This control arm kit covers an earlier heavy-duty pickup generation than the 2011–2019 Cognito option.
Its listed features include a corrected ball-joint angle and a maintenance-free pivot bushing. The application is specified for 2WD and 4WD models. Those details make it important to distinguish this kit from parts for later model years.
Check before ordering: Confirm the vehicle falls within the stated years and 2500/3500 series. It is not identified as a semi-truck control arm.
Cognito 2014–2018 Silverado/Sierra 1500 Kit
Best for: Owners of compatible 2014–2018 Silverado or Sierra 1500 trucks who need an upper control arm kit for a 2WD or 4WD application. It is a light-duty pickup option, not a semi-truck part.
Cognito lists a corrected ball-joint angle and a semi-gloss black powder-coated finish. The listing states compatibility with OEM stamped steel or aluminum configurations, making accurate vehicle identification particularly important.
Check before ordering: Confirm the exact model year and original arm configuration. The product details provided do not state a lift range or additional fitment exclusions.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Part
Do you need a control arm or a pitman arm?
A control arm connects parts of a vehicle’s suspension and helps locate the wheel assembly. A pitman arm is part of the steering linkage. The two Volvo and Kenworth products listed here are pitman arms. If your repair calls for a suspension control arm on a semi truck, none of the supplied listings is identified as that part.
How can you confirm vehicle fitment?
Start with the vehicle make, model, year, and series. For the Automann options, compare the OEM cross-reference and listed dimensions. For the Cognito kits, match the specified year range and Silverado/Sierra series, then confirm drivetrain and original arm configuration where applicable. Do not rely on a general “truck” label to establish fitment.
Which features matter when comparing options?
- Application: Match the part to the exact truck and component location.
- Measurements: Compare pitman-arm length and bore diameters with the required specifications.
- Suspension geometry: Cognito lists corrected ball-joint angles; one kit also lists added caster.
- Use case: A pickup control arm listing does not establish suitability for a semi truck.
When fitment remains uncertain, use the vehicle’s service information or consult a qualified parts professional before ordering. A component that looks similar may have different mounting dimensions or serve a different function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pitman arms and control arms the same part?
No. A pitman arm is a steering linkage component, while a control arm belongs to the suspension. Identify the failed component before selecting a replacement.
Which listed products are specifically for semi trucks?
The Automann pitman arms are listed for Volvo VN Series and Kenworth semi trucks. Neither is described as a suspension control arm.
Can the Silverado or Sierra control arm kits fit a semi truck?
The supplied information lists them for specific Chevrolet and GMC pickup models. It does not establish semi-truck compatibility.
What should I check before buying a pitman arm?
Confirm the truck application, OEM cross-reference, and mounting measurements. The Volvo and Kenworth listings provide different dimensions and part references.
Which Cognito kit is for a 2500 or 3500 pickup?
The listed 2001–2010 and 2011–2019 kits are for specified Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500 models. Match the product’s year range to the vehicle before purchase.