Lower Ball Joints
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Lower Ball Joints
I drive a 2001 Explorer Sport-Trac. I've been getting some wierd vibrations from the front of the vehicle, especially when I drive a higher speeds. At first I was told that one of my wheels was bent, so I assumed that was where the problem was from. I'd also realized that it was out of alignment, but since i dont drive it that often, I didn't pay too much attention. Today, I finally took it to Kauffman Tire to have get a rotation and balance, I did not expect to be told that need to have my lower ball joints replaced. The Tech quoted me $325.20 + Tax to have this done.
What I'd like to know is if this is a job that I can tackle on my own?
Is this a fair price quote?
I have very limited experience with Auto DIY repair, but I am willing to tackle it if it's worth the money
What I'd like to know is if this is a job that I can tackle on my own?
Is this a fair price quote?
I have very limited experience with Auto DIY repair, but I am willing to tackle it if it's worth the money
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2007
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Had the exact same symptoms and was told the same things as you! I wonder if this is SOS for most dealers. Took my 01 EB to an independent and got the diagnosis of one shot lower ball joint and one that could make it through a state inspection but if the one was bad the other was probably on borrowed time. I had both replaced for $130 for parts and $150 for labor plus the applicable state tax. Just my opinion but make sure you get a good quality ball joint with the grease fitting and not a sealed unit. No more vibration and all feels good and tight.
Tuned
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 296
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From: north carolina
If there's any appreciable slop in the joint, then it probably needs replacing. Often, a symptom of ball joint failure is tire cupping. As stated, I would recommend Moog or equivalent replacements with zerk fittings so you can keep the joints lubed. Always replace the ball joints in pairs, and while you're at it, I'd replace the upper joints too. Probably seen the same number of miles as the ones that failed. The uppers will require a control arm replacement as well, unless they've been changed since the factory install, and the replacement arms have pressed in joints.
This is definitely a job that can be done yourself. However, the lowers will require some special tools, namely a tool to press the old joint out, and the new joint in, the lower control arm. You can borrow a C-type press tool from Advance or Autozone. But, I have to say I haven't personally had much luck using this tool with the lower arm on the vehicle. I usually remove the lower arm and use a shop press, but that's just my preference.
If you change the uppers, you'll need an alignment afterwards.
This is definitely a job that can be done yourself. However, the lowers will require some special tools, namely a tool to press the old joint out, and the new joint in, the lower control arm. You can borrow a C-type press tool from Advance or Autozone. But, I have to say I haven't personally had much luck using this tool with the lower arm on the vehicle. I usually remove the lower arm and use a shop press, but that's just my preference.
If you change the uppers, you'll need an alignment afterwards.
Tuned
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 296
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From: north carolina
I would say this is probably a 6-7. If you've never done it, expect it to take you as much as 5-6 hours, as you'll go slow an have to look things over. But, this is how you learn. The next time you do it, you can probably cut that time in half or more.
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