How to replace the ball joints on your 97-03 F-150 4X4

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Sep 12, 2016 | 08:12 AM

#211

rsylvstr

Cargo Master

Joined: Dec 2006

Posts: 3,489

Likes: 45

From: Central NY

Quote:

Originally Posted by billbob1234

Are the pictures from the first post lost forever?

Most likely. Try this
upper/lower ball joint replace (1997-2003) - Ford F150 Forum - Community of Ford Truck Fans

Sep 12, 2016 | 12:48 PM

#212

billbob1234

New User

Joined: Sep 2016

Posts: 2

Likes: 0

Quote:

Originally Posted by rsylvstr

Most likely. Try this
upper/lower ball joint replace (1997-2003) - Ford F150 Forum - Community of Ford Truck Fans

Thank you for that.
I went ahead an ordered a manual this morning. Also with you tube I should be able to get this done. My question is, does any one recomend replacing all the upper, lower arms, idle and pitman arms while you are in there? Maybe shocks as well?

Sep 14, 2016 | 06:14 PM

#213

rsylvstr

Cargo Master

Joined: Dec 2006

Posts: 3,489

Likes: 45

From: Central NY

I'm big on doing it all if it's already apart.

Jun 9, 2025 | 02:13 PM

#214

Rooster403

Cross-Country

Joined: Jan 2016

Posts: 62

Likes: 3

Apparently, the photo links no longer work. But thanks for the details. R.

Jun 10, 2025 | 07:58 AM

#215

manicmechanic007

Lead Driver

Joined: Jul 2020

Posts: 9,915

Likes: 2,439

From: Near Salt Lake City

Quote:

Originally Posted by billbob1234

Not I
I would advise you to only replace the parts that are loose
Then in 4 years do it again, check for loose parts and replace only what is needed
Some unabused trucks will go 250-300k on the balljoints, tie rod ends and the pitman arm
Your idler arm will NOT last that long