Balljoint preference
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New User
Joined: May 2007
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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: 11,932
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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
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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.
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New User
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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...