Rear upper arm ball joint left CTR CB0120 – Honda Prelude 1988–1991 (52401-SF1-003)

Rear upper arm ball joint left CTR CB0120 (CBHO-36, 52401-SF1-003) – Honda Prelude 1988–1991

The rear upper arm ball joint – left side from CTR is a high-quality replacement for the original suspension joint used in the Honda Prelude 1988–1991. This joint connects the rear upper control arm to the rear knuckle (upright), keeping the wheel correctly guided and the car stable in corners.

The presented CTR joint with current part number CB0120 supersedes the older code CBHO-36 and replaces Honda OEM 52401-SF1-003. It is the right choice when you want to restore the rear suspension on your Prelude without buying a complete arm from Honda.

Key features of the rear upper arm ball joint (left)

• Manufacturer: CTR – renowned supplier of suspension components.
• Current CTR number: CB0120.
• Previous CTR number: CBHO-36.
• Honda OEM number: 52401-SF1-003.
• Position: rear axle, upper control arm, left side.
• Connection point: upper control arm ↔ rear knuckle (upper mounting point of the knuckle).
• Application: removal of play in the rear suspension and restoration of correct wheel alignment.
• Quality close to OEM: durable housing, precise taper and stable operation under load.

Application – Honda Prelude 1988–1991

The CTR CB0120 rear upper arm ball joint (left) fits:

• Honda Prelude 1988–1991 – all versions with independent rear suspension.

The OEM reference 52401-SF1-003 appears in Honda catalogues as the rear upper arm ball joint for the left-hand side. This CTR part is designed as a direct replacement for that number.

When should you replace the rear upper arm ball joint?

Replacement of the rear upper arm ball joint on a Honda Prelude is recommended when you notice:

• knocking or clunking noises from the rear when driving over bumps,
• noticeable play when rocking the rear wheel horizontally or vertically,
• irregular or excessive tyre wear on the rear axle,
• problems setting or maintaining rear wheel alignment,
• the car feeling loose or unstable in fast corners.

Because this joint sits at a key pivot point between the upper arm and the rear knuckle, any play in it has a direct impact on handling and safety. At the first signs of wear it is worth planning a replacement.

Installation notes

• before installation, compare the new joint with the old one (shape, taper, housing diameter, length),
• the joint is pressed into the upper mounting point of the rear knuckle – removal usually requires a press or proper pullers,
• avoid using a hammer directly on the knuckle or arm to prevent damage,
• after replacing suspension joints it is strongly recommended to check and adjust the rear wheel alignment.

FAQ – rear upper arm ball joint left CTR CB0120 for Honda Prelude

Is this part side–specific?
Yes, this is the ball joint for the left-hand side rear upper control arm. If you need the right side, look for the matching joint (e.g. CTR CB0119 / Honda 52391-SF1-003).

Is CBHO-36 the same as CB0120?
Yes. CBHO-36 is an older CTR code. The current catalogue number for this joint is CB0120, with the same fitment.

Does CB0120 really replace Honda 52401-SF1-003?
Yes, this CTR joint is designed as a direct aftermarket replacement for Honda OEM 52401-SF1-003 used in the rear upper arm / knuckle connection on Prelude 1988–1991.

Do I need an alignment after replacement?
Any time you replace key suspension joints or disturb the arms, you should at least check – and if necessary adjust – the rear axle alignment to restore correct camber and toe.