Hello everybody it's time to replace my LH outer tie rod. Who makes the best quality tie rod ends? I'm not against buying Motorcraft parts but I'm assuming they don't make there own tie rods so I don't really want to pay extra if it's just a Moog part in a Motorcraft box. I'm running 35" tires so I need the best. What do you all recommend? Thanks in advance.

 

I went with Motorcraft Drag links and LH tie rod on my Super Duty, still need to do the passenger side, but it isn't bad yet.

If you do order the Motorcraft you will need a nut, castle cover and a cotter pin. Typically Moog and other aftermarket brands come with.

 

I've always had great luck with Moog parts. Running Moog on my Ex now...

 

XRF makes good stuff.

 

I was a mechanic for years. Moog is the way to go. Generally Moog ball joints and tie rod ends are greaseable.

 

Problem is the new Moog stuff is not the same quality as the old stuff.

XRF's are also greasable.

 

Thanks everybody for the help. Thinking I might go moog. The RH side is Moog already so might as well keep them the same. Plus they come with the nessasary hardware.

 

Anyone had issues with Moog Ball Joints being 2 tight? Ford redesigned the ball joints to loosen them up (Per Local Ford Tech). Had them inspect mine due to a steering issue the result was they are extremely tight. Ball joints are relatively new with 30k. Talked with Moog engineer and was told if during the install the camber plug is not removed and cleaned or ball joints get incorrectly torqued they will be to tight.

 

Someone here had that issue recently IIRC. I think if you use the incorrect torque value or sequence there can be issues...

 

I normally do my own work on almost everything but pressed for time, and about to drag the TT down to Kentucky I had my local mech whom I trust, do all ball joints, and drag link ends. They were done with the premium lifetime guaranteed Moog parts. As a bonus when I picked up the Ex after alignment was done, he added a receipt with a sticker for the warranty on the labor also. 2 years free labor and if I'm outside of 25 miles away when I need that help, I can call the number on the receipt and they provide a tow if needed and free labor and parts anywhere in North America. It's some sort of network of shops across North America...I almost fell over! Awesome shop, and glad I didn't do those myself in that big rush to leave town.

Also, I went back over to the alignment shop and had them add my SPD y-pipe. Mentioned that I felt like the front end was a little tight if that makes sense, and he noted that he saw they were the premium Moog, and they'd settle in nicely just drive it for a bit. It does drive now like almost new to be truthful. It was all over the place before.

 

The Moog I have now are way to tight. In talking with Moog rep I have what they call Memory steer issue. Moog did say their ball joints are tighter then OEM as they have not made the revisions to the ball joints as Ford has done to loosen them up.

From local Ford the "Memory Steer" issue is widely known if aftermarket ball joints are used. Some trucks are affected more then others. Guessing mine is one of the lucky ones.

I have decided to remove the new Moogs and install new OEM Ford ball joints. Will see if it fixes the issue.

 

I would skip the Moog and go Spicer next time. Kit on Amazon for $191 shipped.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Spicer-2020314-Ball-Joint-Kit/dp/B00GAPDY34&ved=0ahUKEwjwm_WJ6KjVAhWphFQKHUxLDxEQFg hVMAA&usg=AFQjCNExgUxlVZU02YILeVMkGNccqGbWnw