Lock and load control arm

A control arm for use in a vehicle suspension, the control arm comprising:

• a housing;
• a first connection, the first connection configured to secure the control arm to a first external device;
• a second connection, the second connection configured to secure the control arm to a second external device;
• a shaft configured to transmit an external force from the first connection to the second connection;
• wherein the external force expands or contracts a distance between the first connection and the second connection within predetermined limits;
• and
• an mechanical bias, wherein the mechanical bias:
• returns the distance between the first connection and the second connection to a set free length when the external force is removed;
• and
• can be adjusted such that the control arm resists all expansion and contraction.

A control arm for use in a vehicle suspension, the control arm comprising:

• a housing;
• a separator separating the housing into a first portion and a second portion;
• a first connection, the first connection configured to secure the control arm to a first external device;
• a second connection, the second connection configured to secure the control arm to a second external device;
• a shaft configured to transmit an external force from the first connection to the second connection;
• a first attachment connecting the first connection to the shaft, wherein the first attachment includes a threading with a first lead;
• a second attachment on an end of the shaft opposite the first attachment, wherein the second attachment includes a threading with a second lead;
• wherein the external force expands or contracts a distance between the first connection and the second connection within predetermined limits;
• and
• a first bearing in the first portion of the housing and around the shaft;
• a second bearing in the second portion of the housing and threaded on the shaft at the second attachment, wherein the second bearing may not rotate relative to the housing;
• a first mechanical bias in the first portion of the housing;
• a second mechanical bias in the second portion of the housing;
• wherein:
• rotation of the shaft in a first direction compresses both the first mechanical bias and the second mechanical bias;
• rotation of the shaft in a second direction opposite the first direction expands both the first mechanical bias and the second mechanical bias;
• the first mechanical bias and the second mechanical bias create an adjustable mechanical bias, wherein the adjustable mechanical bias:
• returns the distance between the first connection and the second connection to a set free length when the external force is removed;
• and
• can be adjusted to a rigid state that prevents expansion or contraction of the control arm.