Frt End Question
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Mountain Pass
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 188
Likes: 1
From: Michigan
Frt End Question
Im looking at a 2003 f-150 ext cab 4x4, it has higher miles but body is in great shape and was told it runs great.
Well since its a hr away I have been asking lots of questions and he said the only issue it has is the frt end shakes at Higher speeds on dirt/bumpy roads but on smooth roads it doesnt do it.
He said his friend said it was ball joints, Im wondering if might be something else like a wheel bearing?
I would take it to my mechanic who said he would shake it down for free but its a hr away
The price is really good for what I am looking for and not afraid to put some repairs into it
Well since its a hr away I have been asking lots of questions and he said the only issue it has is the frt end shakes at Higher speeds on dirt/bumpy roads but on smooth roads it doesnt do it.
He said his friend said it was ball joints, Im wondering if might be something else like a wheel bearing?
I would take it to my mechanic who said he would shake it down for free but its a hr away
The price is really good for what I am looking for and not afraid to put some repairs into it
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 1,354
Likes: 31
From: Winnipeg
I can only tell you of my 02 4x4. I bought used at 60000 miles safety showed both inner and outer tie rods changed. Between roughly 85000 to 110000 miles I've changed front shocks; 2 sets of stabilizer bar links (first set broke one link); 1 set of stabilizer bar bushings; both lower ball joints and both wheel bearing assemblies. My brother had an 03 but sold with low mileage on it. Warranty on his only changed the idle control arm. So you can see it can be anything with miles on it. Best to have someone check it. You might also want to check the price of parts if you want to or need to replace the whole front end system. You can build a list online at rockauto or napa say to see if the price exceeds what your willing to shell out. Of coarse labor is extra.
Cross-Country
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 76
Likes: 1
From: Texas
Sway bar bushings are almost always worn or completely missing. Just did an entire front end rebuild on my 2001 4x4 F150. Upper & lower ball joints were worn out as well. I'm still chasing steering issues even after replacing the steering shaft along with all components including shocks & rotors/pads. I've tightened the steering gear box 20+ f'n times with little results. A new gear box is the last part to be replaced and it tests BAD. Input shaft moves a scooch while the arm doesn't.
5th Wheeling
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 41
Likes: 1
From: n.e. of mt. vernon, il.
I wouldn't worry about it most likely tie rod ends.Inspect movement while he turns wheel back and fourth slowly.Talk him down and just be careful going home with it.
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Cargo Master
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 2,300
Likes: 554
its due to have the whole front end rebuilt anyways. Moog and amazon brands have complete kits.
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Cross-Country
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 76
Likes: 1
From: Texas
Same here...bought an old fixer upper. Found an entire front end suspension kit ($140) on Amazon by Detroit Axle. All joints have grease fittings, Add sway bar & lower bushings for $50. Then add the cost of a shop press & ball joint tool from HF Tools for $200. Be sure to clean everything and paint it. Drove weird so the steering shaft (&60) was replaced & then the steering box ($120) after trying to adjust it. Looks & feels new after an alignment ($100) !
MOST IMPORTANT...make sure to have a 35mm socket ($10) to remove the axle bolt.
MOST IMPORTANT...make sure to have a 35mm socket ($10) to remove the axle bolt.
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