front suspension question

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May 25, 2016 | 06:59 AM

annaleigh

Thread Starter

Logistics Pro

Joined: Oct 2014

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front suspension question

1 why does the energy suspension radius arm bushings not include the washers and cupped looking piece seen in other kits? And what is the Moog difference in the problem solver
ENERGY SUSPENSION 47107R
More Information for ENERGY SUSPENSION 47107R

MOOG K8268
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MOOG K80005 Problem Solver
More Information for MOOG K80005

2- Sway Bar Bushings... they list many different sizes. Is there a certain place to check the diameter of the sway bar or just right at the old bushings?

3- IF replacing all the bushings and shocks on the front end, would you replace the coil springs too?
these I guess?
Front; Standard Cargo Van; E-150 Econoline Base Model; 138.0" Wheelbase; Heavy Duty; Except Parcel Delivery
More Information for MOOG CC824

4- Would you also order the Coil Spring Insulators? I don't know if mine are bad or not but would hate to get the springs off and find out they were bad.
More Information for MOOG K160043

Thanks
Anna

May 25, 2016 | 09:44 AM

JWA

Fleet Owner

Joined: Aug 2010

Posts: 21,255

Likes: 1,657

From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio

Quote:

Originally Posted by annaleigh

1 why does the energy suspension radius arm bushings not include the washers and cupped looking piece seen in other kits?

Because Energy Suspension kit assumes your existing washers are intact.

The Moog kit---as much as I like their products generally---might not be urethane of the same durometer as Energy Suspension.

FWIW I use and have used Energy Suspension parts on four different E-Series---they're top shelf.

Quote:

Originally Posted by annaleigh

2- Sway Bar Bushings... they list many different sizes. Is there a certain place to check the diameter of the sway bar or just right at the old bushings?

Ordered or selected by year, make and model. Assuming you have a stock bar Energy Suspension et al should make that selection very easy.

Quote:

Originally Posted by annaleigh

3- IF replacing all the bushings and shocks on the front end, would you replace the coil springs too?

I bought mine through Amazon, again selected by year make and model. Moog has the linear rate and progressive rate, for your use the progressive would work just fine Just under $100 from Amazon, easy no hassle return and warranty service if its ever needed.

Quote:

Originally Posted by annaleigh

4- Would you also order the Coil Spring Insulators? I don't know if mine are bad or not but would hate to get the springs off and find out they were bad.

Its not a bad idea ordering "everything"---like you that down time waiting sucks. I've not yet had to replace those parts but even so if they're cheap order those too.

HTH?

May 25, 2016 | 11:28 PM

VOODOO7.3

Senior User

Joined: Apr 2016

Posts: 113

Likes: 0

From: Central, TX

I just did my entire front end rebuild at @ 160K. I used all Moog polyurethane bushings, upper and lower ball joints, tie rod ends, Timken wheel bearings and seals, KYB MonoMax shocks, from Rock Auto and they all are excellent. I have used Energy Susp bushings on past trucks and I agree that they are excellent as well. Yes, to just measuring diameter of bar for bushings just behind front bumper. I personally, would consider front coil springs a "wear item", but some people don't mind the front sagging after a while. I don't like the front diving in turns so I'm glad I replaced them. It is possible to see the general condition of the insulators under the coils. I could see that the passenger side had torn and needed replacing, so I just ordered both because they're only $8 each. Also check condition of bump stops. They may be OK, but I've seen a few missing or badly dry rotted.

May 26, 2016 | 01:05 AM

delgriffith

Senior User

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 246

Likes: 3

Never replaced front springs or spring bushings, tons and tons of miles. But not sure how old of van you're working on. Age wears things worse than miles in some cases.