98 Ranger front suspension issues
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Junior User
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 89
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From: Ft. Wayne, IN
98 Ranger front suspension issues
I just bought a 98 ranger, 2wd 5-speed. The inside of the front tires are pretty tore up, looks like both tires have some inward camber at the top, the front end shakes pretty badly at 60-70mph. It also makes a growling noise between 33-38mph.
Any suggestions on where to start? Ball joints? Wheel bearings? U-joints? Thanks in advance for the help.
Any suggestions on where to start? Ball joints? Wheel bearings? U-joints? Thanks in advance for the help.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 514
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From: Ohio
To me those are classic ball joint issues and though you don't mention mileage at that vintage they could well be due. A common check is to have the wheels 3-4 inches off the ground with wheels still on and push-pull at top and bottom to check for movement. Or, raise truck same way and use pry bar as lever from bottom, pull up against tire and check. If you are going to do them, do all four because once one or two goes the others are not far off. I also agree it could be the other components mentioned but from my experience the ball joints are the first culprits on Rangers.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 29,941
Likes: 46
From: Drummonds, TN USA
Camber can also be influenced by weak spring coils. But it isn't quite old enough unless it got POUNDED by a prior owner.
Keep in mind also that a master bushing kit is good to have around.
Keep in mind also that a master bushing kit is good to have around.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 586
Likes: 1
I agree with everything said. I would suggest doing all ball joints (both upper and both lower), Tie Rod ends, good time to do Sway bar end links, and while you have it apart front brakes with new rotors and bearings while you're in there are probably in order. Given your symptoms look for the upper control arms with ball joints as one assembly as my creaking and groaning was coming out of the control arm bushing.
Seems like a lot of things, but total is only around 300 bucks and you'll be good to go for years to come in one days work.
Seems like a lot of things, but total is only around 300 bucks and you'll be good to go for years to come in one days work.
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Elder User
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 514
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but if you do the ball joints, tie rod ends and/or some of the other components, are you not are looking at a front end alignment to finish the job.
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 586
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absolutely agreed. I often assume a lot when i type. lol. but yes, I use the couple of reputable dealers around here to do alignments, $60-70.
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