Nice write-up and pics. Reps sent to OP.

Question (and I can probably search, but I'm lazy). Any good way to tell when ball joints need to be replaced? I've been doing various maintenance items on my truck "just because" and since I bought it used with no previous maintenance records. Easy stuff so far, like fuel filter, rear diff fluid change, etc.

Tearing into the front end like this is obviously on a higher level. I'd probably end up having it done somewhere. I could get it all apart, most likely, but pressing new ball joints in is where I'd probably come up short (have to find somewhere with a press, I guess). Either way, not sure if I want to invest the money if the previous owner may have already had this done (truck seems to have been very well maintained).

I suspect I'll probably bite the bullet and get it done at some point, again "just because", but would rather do it later than sooner.

 

Jack the wheel off the ground and see if there's any slack or you will notice the steering change directions on you... Simple example

 

Great write-up. I am having a friend do mine for me. Cold and a time issue. He works for $35/hr cash and works as a mechanic as his day job. Anyone know how much I should pay him for the job or the book hours for the job? I bought brand new Ford parts so it is just his labor. Thanks.

 

Book hours is quite a bit. I did my drivers side a couple weeks ago. I'd say it took around 4 hours total. Maybe a little less. But I did it in the driveway of the apartment complex, so it was pretty inefficient. And I was not hurrying. I've done the job before, so I knew exactly what I was doing.

I'd say plan on paying him for at least 6 hours for both sides.

 

OK. Thanks. Merry Christmas!

 

nice write up, I used this to work on my 2001 2x4 Lifted Excursion, did both sides and inner/outer tie rods in about 4 hours...taking my time.

Thank you...PERFECT!