Balljoint preference
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Balljoint preference
Ok I am about to tackle the job of replacing the lower balljoint on my 97f150 4x4. I need to know which brand do most of you guys prefer. I'm not sure what brand to get and if there is a difference.
Also do I need to get an alignment after I am done with it? Any info would help thanks!!!
Also do I need to get an alignment after I am done with it? Any info would help thanks!!!
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 11,931
Likes: 180
I agree with Altra. I just bought the standard ball joint sold by Auto Zone. they have grease aerks. I grease 2 times a year. Think they will last 2-3 times as long as the original manufacture equip.--- THE ball joints are round, turned on a lathe. If you think about it, punch one out, install one in, they should be exactly in the same spot... with in a few thousands. I did not require an alignment with the BOTTOM jjoints.
Postmaster
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3,241
Likes: 3
From: Broken Arrow, OK
I use Moog at work, but just because that's what our supplier sells. There are many quality brands out there. As long as you don't buy based on price you'll be OK.
I wouldn't do front end work without doing an alignment. Yes, it should be close to what it was when the old part was still good, but it doesn't work that way. For all you know it wasn't anywhere close from the factory. I did an alignment on a GM truck today that had no worn front end parts and it was over 2 degrees out of spec on caster on both sides and was almost 1 degree out of spec in camber on the right side. I've seen this on all brands, not just the General.
I wouldn't do front end work without doing an alignment. Yes, it should be close to what it was when the old part was still good, but it doesn't work that way. For all you know it wasn't anywhere close from the factory. I did an alignment on a GM truck today that had no worn front end parts and it was over 2 degrees out of spec on caster on both sides and was almost 1 degree out of spec in camber on the right side. I've seen this on all brands, not just the General.
Trending Topics
Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 3,489
Likes: 45
From: Central NY
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
New User
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Just did this job myself the other day and went with Motorcraft ball joints, was not that more expensive. The number one thing is getting the front drive shafts off the hub assembly, once that is done its easy. Oh yea you diffently want a ball joint press, makes it a lot easier to put them in with that.
Good luck...
Good luck...