changing ball joints
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Freshman User
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changing ball joints
I have a 86 F-150 Supercab with 125k on it.Recently the front end feels a little loose so I started with doing new wheel bearings and seals and new tie rods and drag link rods(?)long one and short one. Helped a little but was wondering how you check this type of ball joint for wear, and how hard is it to replace them yourself? Any other answers about the front end losseness would be appreciated. Thanks, Bud in Winslow AZ.
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Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 6,777
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From: Kalispell, MT
You need to figure out where it's loose. Lift one side at a time and support with a jack stand. Grab the tire and see if you can move it front to back - if you can, you've got linkage problems. Next see if you can move the tire top to bottom - if so the ball joints are shot.
If none of the above, you might have play in the steering gear box. Watch to see where things are moving and you'll know what's worn.
If none of the above, you might have play in the steering gear box. Watch to see where things are moving and you'll know what's worn.
