Okay, we're talking about my 2004 F150 XLT Triton 4.6L Super Crew 2wd

So I was told at my last rebalancing that my lower ball joint, driver side, has alot of play in it. Doesn't surprise me because the steering wheel is pretty damn shakey when I get up to speeds in excess of 65mph. Really want to do the job myself, but my Haynes manual says the lower ball joint and control arm must be replaced as one assembly. However I'm seeing conflicting opinions on similar F150s. Like I'm seeing that on the 2004 4x4's can just have the ball joint replaced without touching the lower control arm. Same with the 2005s'. So bottom line, is that Haynes manual correct?

Also, I'm really unsure as to whether I have the new or old body style, I just don't have an eye for those things. EDIT*** I've recently found out that I in fact have the new body style. But does it make a difference in doing this repair as far as the part needed?

And what specialized tools would I need? Do I need something to compress any springs or stabilizer struts? Because the Haynes seems pretty vague in this area.

 

I was under the impression that the lower ball joints could be replaced but that the UPPERS were sold as an upper control with ball joint as one unit???

 

2004 F150 XLT 2WD Reg cab 4.6

I just ordered Monroe quickstruts for the front, rear shocks, upper control arms (Ball joint already installed) and lower ball joints. Chiltons describes the upper assembly as a unit and the lower as removeable with a press.

 

Thanks, yes I have seen the Chiltons since posting this. The Haynes manual definitely leaves that part out. I've picked up some Moog lower ball joints and will be installing them as soon as I can get a press.

 

I'm dreadin doing the front which I've planned for late September. If you would, report back about how difficult the lowers were to remove/install??

I'm still trying to decide on these. Anyone?
http://www.moog-suspension-parts.com...=MOOG%2DK80087

 

Lowers aren't terrible to do if your a skilled mechanic. I think both mine took 4 hours total.

 

Ive done lower ball joints on 05 f150. takes about 45 min a side and you need a c clip pliers and ball joint press. the rest is very basic mechanics.

 

I just did my lower ball joints today - I installed the Moog Greasable ones

I loaned the advance auto professional ball joint press - this was the 23 piece kit and it Rocked! It had the correct cups to install the ball joint. I did have to use a piece of 1/4" steel across the top of the lower arm to give the tool something to press against as the distance was too great for the C-clamp, but once the ball joint was flush with the lower arm I was able to use the provided receiver cup and the ball joint went right in!

I am completely SHOCKED how much better the truck rode ! hahaha... 81,000 miles on the truck and those ball joints will last as they are greasable!

The install was straight forward and it helped to have the Factory service manual as it listed all Torque values.

Feel free to ask questions about the install / removal process.

-Steve