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Old Sep 21, 2012 | 11:46 AM
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Suspension

I have a 2000 XLT Explr. 4.0 SOHC and am experiencing clanging sounds. I understand that this is due to wear and tear and may need new bushings and possibly control arms. My question is can I just change the bushings or do I need a new conrtrol arm also? Also, what bushing do I need to change and can I do this myself?
Thanks for any pointers.
 
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Old Sep 21, 2012 | 02:43 PM
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Upper control arms are replaced as OEM does not provide for an ball joint replacement, at least not an easy one. Lower ones have a replaceable ball joint. Bushings may need to be replaced also. Check your anti-roll bar bushings also.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2012 | 09:57 AM
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Are there any special tools required to remove/replace the lower bushing?

How do you know when the upper arm need replacing?












/
 
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Old Sep 22, 2012 | 09:33 PM
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I think you need to do a little checking and find out what the problem is before you start changing out A frame bushings... I would bet, that is not the problem. Put a jack under the A frame and lift a couple inches and then move the tire, wheel, steering, etc, and see what is moving.
 
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Old Nov 4, 2012 | 12:09 PM
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i have same xlt,just did front end ! right and left side are both defendant. bottom a arm has c clip holding in ball joint ,upper a arm comes as one part with ball joint in place .they sell kitt with all you,ll need at auto zone/e-bay ,drivers side upper a arm has shims for front end alinement ! you will also have to check out your lower a arm bushing ,mine where still good ,and the front anti-roll bar bushings well most likely be just hanging there bushings gone look so bad you know there shot[once replaced you,ll feel how much better your truck drives ]that torsion bar must be pulling down or your asking for a roll -over ] ,as far as upper and lower ball joints just look at them you,ll see all the grease gaskets coming apart and they will look dry! they come from factory without grease fittings ! and here,s a note to look for when buying those replacements ! look for kits with grease fixings for each ball joint cost a little more but once replaced and front end alined ,your truck will drive and handle like new,stay flat in corners because your torsion bar is hold body roll to minimum .
 
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