Quick answer
The Vanquish F10 Portal Aluminum Front Knuckle is a direct replacement for the molded knuckles on your VS4-10 Phoenix Portal Kit or F10 front axle set. It offers the same outside dimensions for maximum clearance and uses the original axle components.
Why upgrade to aluminum knuckles
The stock molded F10 portal knuckles work fine for light crawling, but they can flex under heavy loads or high-torque brushless setups. The aluminum version eliminates that flex, giving you more consistent steering and longer component life.
Because the aluminum knuckles match the original dimensions exactly, you don't need to change your steering links, axle housings, or portal gear setup. The upgrade is purely mechanical – no geometry changes required.
What you need to know before starting
The F10 Aluminum Front Knuckle is made in the USA from domestic aluminum and is machined to the same outside dimensions as the molded knuckle. It accepts all original F10 portal components, including the bearings, seals, and portal gears.
You will need basic hex wrenches (2mm and 2.5mm), a small flathead screwdriver for seals, and threadlocker (blue Loctite recommended). The install is straightforward but requires careful attention to bearing orientation and seal placement.
F10 Aluminum Knuckle installation steps
- Step 1: Remove the old knuckle: Remove the wheel and hex nut, then take out the four M3 screws holding the molded knuckle to the axle housing. Carefully pull the knuckle straight off – the bearings and seal are pressed in and may stay on the axle shaft. Check that the axle shaft bearings are not damaged or loose before reusing them.
- Step 2: Transfer bearings and seal: Press the inner bearing, outer bearing, and the rubber seal out of the old knuckle and into the new aluminum knuckle. Use a bearing press or a socket of the same diameter to avoid damaging the bearing races. Apply a thin layer of grease to the seal lip to prevent dry start wear.
- Step 3: Install the new knuckle: Slide the new knuckle onto the axle shaft, making sure the seal seats evenly. Align the four screw holes and thread in the M3 screws with a drop of blue threadlocker on each. Tighten to 12-15 in-lbs (1.4-1.7 Nm) in a cross pattern. Do not overtighten – the aluminum threads can strip at higher torque.
- Step 4: Reassemble and check movement: Reinstall the wheel hex and wheel. Turn the steering from lock to lock – the knuckle should rotate smoothly without binding. If it feels tight, loosen the screws slightly and retorque evenly. If binding persists, check that the seal is fully seated and not pinched.
Product facts
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F10 Portal Aluminum Front Knuckle: The Vanquish Products F10 Aluminum Front Knuckles are a direct replacement for the F10 Portal knuckles included in the VS4-10 Phoenix Portal Kit and VPS08600 F10 Front axle set. This means you can upgrade your existing portal axle without buying a new axle set or modifying your steering geometry.
F10 Portal Aluminum Front Knuckle