I have a 90 EB FUll Size Bronco - it is specifically used for off-roading at the dunes.

I am contantly breaking the ball joints, but I like the way the TTB handles the ride at the dunes. Outside of a solid axle swap, is there any way to beef up the ball joints?

Or are there any other alternatives or ways to build up the ball joints so I'm not having to go for a solid axle swap? Any direction would be appreciated, thanks.

 

I've never heard of anyone breaking ball joints off a Dana 44. They're not the weak point, usually. Have you tried different brands? Moog makes excellent suspension parts.

 

i agree check out moog , what size tires are you running by chance?

 

avoid the import vall joints, weak metal they'll come apart.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. I did a search prior to posting but was not satsified with the results. I am running 15x10 inch rims on 33' SSR's.

I am looking at the Moog ball joints, but I don't want to spend $400 just yet to have someone put them in.

I am not confident enough in my skills and don't have the tools to do the ball joints myself (even thought there are great links on how to do it).

Even more to the point, I don't want to be replacing these again and again or "baby" my off-roading style just to keep the joints from breaking.

I have a local off-road shop looking into an alternative. Just curious if anyone here knows of a "sure-fire" way to either build/buy bullet-proof ball joints (Moog?). Or maybe this is inherent with a TTB and there is no way to fix this issue? Would a solid axle swap be stronger where there is higher speeds, steeper approaches and jumps? Thanks.

 

your jumping it arnt ya? lol

 

kemicalburns,
uh yah!

BTW - I am on a SKyjacker Stage II 6 inch lift, 3 inch body lift, SKyjacker BigGas shocks in the front and reservoirs in the back, limiting straps with no bottoming out. I seem to lose the ball joints in the whoops section.

 

i would contact AutoFab. you need more of a prerunner style setup im thinking.

 

I may do that - just wanted to check this board first, thanks for the help.

 

one last question (related) - Are solid axles stronger? Will I see less ball joint breakage?

 

probably to some extent because there is less movement of the axle itself. a D60 would be better then a D44 thats for sure. i would contact autofab though i bet they will get you set for a lot less hassle of an SAS

 

Thanks, AutoFab and Camburg are a few hours away so that is do-able. I just want to get this front end setup and quit breaking parts. Have a great weekend.

 

Even a Dana 60 will have problems. Not jumping but landing. If you go this route use the kingpin version as they are stronger. That is what is on mine with leafs. I love it and it rides and handles way better than the ttb setup. I will install the swaybar in the back due to the terrible Houston traffic but will remove it when wheeling.

Chris