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Dorman 533-281 Suspension Ball Joint - Front Upper
Dorman 533-281 Front Upper Ball Joint
Dorman 533-281 is a threaded suspension ball joint built as a standard replacement for the original equipment part on select vehicles. It is precision-engineered and tested for dependable front suspension service on 1980-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon front upper applications.
Key Features
- Threaded, bolt-in style suspension ball joint
- Steel construction with grey finish
- Rubber dust boot included
- Standard replacement suspension grade
- Tapered stud design with 12 mm wrench size
- Fits 1980-1991 Volkswagen Vanagon, front upper
Detailed Description
This Dorman suspension ball joint is designed for the front upper position on Volkswagen Vanagon models from 1980 through 1991. The steel body and rubber dust boot support durable service in the suspension assembly, while the threaded, bolt-in mounting style matches the OE-style service layout for this application. Part number 533-281 is a direct-fit replacement for owners servicing worn front suspension joints on the Volkswagen Vanagon.
This part cross-references Delphi TC293 for the same application.
What It Helps Address
- Front suspension looseness or play at the upper ball joint
- Clunking or knocking from the front suspension area
- Uneven steering response caused by worn joint movement
- Excessive tire wear related to suspension joint wear
- Restoring proper front upper suspension articulation on Volkswagen Vanagon models
Installation Notes and Tips
Verify the front upper mounting style and stud configuration before installation. This ball joint uses a threaded design with a tapered stud and does not include a grease fitting, cotter pin, or mounting hardware. Confirm the vehicle application and inspect surrounding suspension components, including bushings and control arm mounting points, before completing the repair.
Quality Assurance
Dorman manufactures this ball joint as a tested replacement part for OE-style service on specific vehicles. The design focuses on fit, material selection, and dimensional accuracy for the listed Volkswagen Vanagon applications.
| Brand | Dorman |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 533-281 |
| Material | Acero |
| Material | Steel |
| Maximum Outside Diameter | 61 |
| Length | 111 |
| Color | Grey |
| Color | Gris |
| Castle Nut Included | No |
| Castle Nut Included | Non |
| Grease Fitting Included | No |
| Grease Fitting Included | Non |
| Suspension Grade Type | Reemplazo estándar |
| Suspension Grade Type | Standard |
| Bushings Included | No |
| Bushings Included | Non |
| Dust Boot Included | Oui |
| Dust Boot Included | Sí |
| Dust Boot Included | Yes |
| Ball Joint Assembly | Oui |
| Ball Joint Assembly | Sí |
| Ball Joint Assembly | Yes |
| Width | 59 |
| Type | Roscado |
| Type | Threaded |
| Cotter Pin Included | No |
| Cotter Pin Included | Non |
| Cotter Pin Hole | No |
| Cotter Pin Hole | Non |
| Mounting Hardware Included | No |
| Mounting Hardware Included | Non |
| Washers Included | No |
This part fits 12 vehicles. Search below:
| Year | Make | Model | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1990 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1989 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1988 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1987 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1986 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1985 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1984 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1983 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1982 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1981 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper | |
| 1980 | Volkswagen | Vanagon | Front Upper |
* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.
This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:
Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.